Equalised new parent leave policy

Author: Rebecca Peedell

When to use this model equalised new parent leave policy

Use this model policy where you wish to provide the same enhanced leave and pay entitlements to qualifying employees who are new parents, regardless of their gender. This policy also covers the right to time off for antenatal and adoption appointments.

This policy does not cover how enhanced leave and pay affect employee benefits. The impact on employee benefits will depend on the terms of the relevant benefit scheme and how the employer chooses to operate those benefits alongside this policy. Because arrangements will vary between organisations and benefit providers, employers should provide separate guidance explaining how benefits will be treated during periods of new parent leave.

The policy is designed to replace any existing maternity, adoption, paternity and shared parental leave policy. For more information about how this policy interacts with other statutory rights, please see the Notes below.

This is an innovative policy, and organisations should carefully consider how an equalised new parent leave approach would work within their organisation before implementing it.