Overview
- The government is laying Statutory Instruments to remove qualifying periods for parental and paternity leave and to establish the Bereaved Partner’s Paternity Leave framework.
- From April 2026, fathers and partners who lose their partner before a child’s first birthday will be eligible for up to 52 weeks of leave.
- Unpaid parental leave becomes a day-one right in any new job, with officials estimating 1.5 million more parents gain flexibility and about 32,000 more fathers each year qualify for immediate paternity leave.
- Labour and unions welcomed the measures as strengthening security at work, while Conservatives said the package adds red tape and risks higher costs for employers.
- Statutory Sick Pay will extend to up to 1.3 million additional lower‑paid or part‑time workers and be payable from the first day of illness, with detailed regulations to be laid in the coming months.