Key facts on paternity leave
Paternity leave and pay is a statutory entitlement for employees whose partner is having a baby, adopting a child or having a baby through a surrogacy arrangement. The leave is up to 2 weeks which is paid at the statutory weekly rate (for 2023/24, the lower of £172.48, or 90% of your average weekly earnings.
To qualify for statutory paternity leave you must be taking time off to look after the child and be one of the following:
- the father
- the husband or partner of the mother (or adopter) – this includes same-sex partners
- the child’s adopter
- the intended parent (if you’re having a baby through a surrogacy arrangement)
- Paternity leave is up to two weeks leave at or around the birth of the child
- You must request paternity leave and pay through your employer at least 15 weeks before the baby is due.
- Can be taken in two separate weeks or two consecutive weeks.
- Must have 26 weeks service at 15 weeks before due date
- Paid at the statutory weekly rate
- Also entitled to take unpaid time off to accompany their pregnant partner to up to two ante-natal appointments.
Retaining Staff
Part of your retention strategy might be to support working parents by enhancing the 2-week paternity leave payment. E.g. some employers match the pay amount that a mother would have during the first 2 weeks of her maternity pay.
If you have any queries or questions regarding paternity leave, please do contact us below via the contact form: