There has been considerable consultation on the introduction of additional paternity leave and pay following the Work and Families Act 2006 and draft regulations have now been laid before Parliament. Although the intention is that the Additional Paternity Leave and Pay scheme will come into force on 6 April 2010 it will only apply to parents of children due to be born on or after 3 April 2011 or to those adopting children who are notified of a match of or after that date.
The introduction of the scheme will mean that those who are eligible, mostly likely to be fathers, will be allowed the right to up to six months leave to care for a child if the mother returns to before the expiration of their full maternity, or as the case may be, adoption leave. The scheme will allow families to be more flexible in their approach to childcare.
We will provide further details on the operation of the scheme in due course.
If you would like further advice on paternity leave and pay arrangements please contact Gemma Cawthray on 0117 314 5266.
This publication is for guidance only. Reliance should not be placed upon it and nor should action be taken, without obtaining advice in respect of the specific circumstances applicable. We will be pleased to provide such advice or assistance.
