[UK] Key details of new statutory right to Neonatal Care Leave and Pay

Parents of babies requiring neonatal care in the UK will gain a new statutory right to Neonatal Care Leave and Pay from April 6, IBB Law reports.

The change was introduced through the Neonatal Care (Leave and Pay) Act 2023. It will provide crucial support to working families during a vulnerable and unpredictable time.

The entitlement will reportedly apply to parents whose newborn babies are admitted to neonatal care within the first 28 days of life and who remain in care for at least seven consecutive days. Eligible parents may take up to 12 weeks of Neonatal Care Leave in addition to any existing leave entitlements, such as maternity, paternity or shared parental leave.

In addition, Statutory Neonatal Care Pay will be available to those meeting the relevant criteria - including a qualifying period of employment and a minimum earnings threshold - to provide financial support while they are away from work.

The Department for Business and Trade has reportedly confirmed that regulations to bring these changes into effect are before Parliament and expected to take effect, as planned, in April.

IIB Law advises employers to take proactive steps to prepare for the changes such as updating family leave and pay policies, ensuring payroll systems can accommodate Neonatal Care Pay and letting leadership and employees know what to expect.

Source: IBB Law

(Link via original reporting)

Parents of babies requiring neonatal care in the UK will gain a new statutory right to Neonatal Care Leave and Pay from April 6, IBB Law reports.

The change was introduced through the Neonatal Care (Leave and Pay) Act 2023. It will provide crucial support to working families during a vulnerable and unpredictable time.

The entitlement will reportedly apply to parents whose newborn babies are admitted to neonatal care within the first 28 days of life and who remain in care for at least seven consecutive days. Eligible parents may take up to 12 weeks of Neonatal Care Leave in addition to any existing leave entitlements, such as maternity, paternity or shared parental leave.

In addition, Statutory Neonatal Care Pay will be available to those meeting the relevant criteria - including a qualifying period of employment and a minimum earnings threshold - to provide financial support while they are away from work.

The Department for Business and Trade has reportedly confirmed that regulations to bring these changes into effect are before Parliament and expected to take effect, as planned, in April.

IIB Law advises employers to take proactive steps to prepare for the changes such as updating family leave and pay policies, ensuring payroll systems can accommodate Neonatal Care Pay and letting leadership and employees know what to expect.

Source: IBB Law

(Link via original reporting)