Overview

• Nationwide protests on May 11 saw baby grows hung at over 100 locations, calling attention to the UK's two-week statutory paternity leave policy, among the least generous in Europe.
• The government announced plans to make paternity and unpaid parental leave day-one rights under the Employment Rights Bill and to review the current leave system.
• The current policy provides two weeks of leave at £187.18 per week or 90% of average weekly earnings, less than half the minimum wage, causing financial and emotional strain for families.
• Research by The Dad Shift and Movember reveals 45% of UK fathers experience symptoms of anxiety or depression in their baby's first year, with 82% identifying improved paternity leave as key to mental health support.
• Activists, supported by MPs, plan a 'Dad Strike' next month to maintain pressure on the government for more substantial reforms, including extended and better-paid leave.