The People Directorate would like to announce some changes to our workplace policies to ensure compliance with the Employment Rights Act (ERA) 2025, specifically in relation to Paternity/Partner’s Leave and Parental Leave. The updated policies can be found here:
Summary of key policy changes
Paternity/Partner’s Leave Policy
- Day one entitlement: From 6 April 2026, paternity/partner’s leave will become a day one right, removing the current requirement for 26 weeks’ service.
- Transitional period*: Temporary notice rules will apply between 18 February and 25 July 2026. Full details are provided within the updated policy.
- Greater flexibility with SPL: Restrictions on when paternity leave can be taken alongside Shared Parental Leave (SPL) have been removed. Leave may now be taken at any point within 52 weeks of the birth or adoption, regardless of SPL usage.
- Bereaved Partner’s Paternity Leave (BPPL): A new entitlement has been introduced - see Section 15 of the policy for further information.
*Please note the Paternity/Partner’s Leave Policy will be updated again and published on 26 July 2026 after which time the transition period will no longer apply.
Parental Leave Policy
- Day one entitlement: From 6 April 2026, parental leave will also become a day one right, replacing the current requirement for one years’ service.
- Entitlement unchanged: Parental leave remains unpaid. Eligible employees may take up to 18 weeks per child before the child’s 18th birthday.
For any questions related to these policies please contact Vanessa Roots, Senior Workforce Policy Officer.
