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Paternity leave policy (expected week of childbirth from 5 April 2026 or birth from 6 April 2026)

Author: Zeba Sayed

When to use this model paternity leave policy

Use this model policy to set out your organisation's approach to supporting employees who are becoming parents and wish to take paternity leave. It covers entitlement to paternity leave and pay, including in birth and adoption situations.

This version of the policy applies where:

  • the expected week of childbirth is on or after 5 April 2026;
  • the child is born on or after 6 April 2026 (even if the expected week of childbirth was before 5 April 2026); or
  • a child is expected to be placed for adoption, or enter Great Britain for adoptions from overseas, on or after 6 April 2026.