The UK government announced a landmark review of parental leave in July 2025. This responds to widespread concern about failings within the current policy framework.
Much of the discussion centres on calls for longer, better-paid paternity leave. The statutory entitlement is just two weeks paid at a low flat rate (£187.18 per week in 2025) or 90% of average weekly earnings, whichever is lower.
Eligible fathers can opt for shared parental leave of up to 50 weeks of leave and up to 37 weeks of pay – paid at the same statutory rate. However, this is reliant on the mother giving up some of her maternity leave entitlement so is rarely taken up.
It is important for fathers to have the opportunity to take longer leave than the statutory two weeks. Evidence suggests that early paternal involvement in childcare lays the foundations for sustained, hands-on fathering.
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