On 6th April 2010, the new right to additional paternity leave allowing fathers to take up to 26 weeks’ paternity leave in the first year of a child’s life was introduced. This will, in effect allow fathers and partners of mothers of children with an expected week of birth beginning on or after 3rd April 2011 to share maternity leave with the mother.
The mother will be able to return to work after 6 months, leaving the father to take what is left of the 12 month’s maternity leave.
What can I do to prepare? Businesses will need to ensure that relevant policies (such as maternity, paternity and parental leave policies) are updated during 2010 to reflect the changes. Employers will need to communicate with staff so that they are aware of what is on offer and of the notification and qualifications requirement.
