The Government announced on 14th September 2009 its intention to legislate for additional paternity leave and pay to be available to fathers of children due to be born on or after 3rd April 2011. The relevant Regulations will come into force on 6th April 2010.
Employers may become aware of potential claims as early as November 2010 and need, therefore, to be up to speed with the changes.
Employed mothers are currently entitled to fifty-two weeks’ maternity leave, of which up to thirty-nine are paid, while employed fathers are entitled to two weeks’ paid paternity leave.
Mothers will have an option under the new scheme of transferring up to six months’ worth of unused maternity leave to the father, this to be taken by him as additional paternity leave.
- What impact will additional paternity leave have on your business?
- Are your policies and procedures up to date?
- Do you know how your procedures will work in practice?
Should you need advice on this or any other employment issue, please contact the Employment Team.
This article was written by Lara Murray, a Solicitor in our Employment Team.