Millions of workers previously denied time off following the birth of a child will become eligible for new day one rights to parental leave from April this year, thanks to new measures being laid in Parliament today (12 January).
The changes, which stem from the new Employment Rights Act, mean parents no longer need to choose between parenting and going back to work.
An additional 32,000 more dads a year will be able to access Paternity Leave immediately - just as a mother would with maternity leave.
The reforms include the right to take Unpaid Parental Leave from the first day in a new job, giving a further 1.5m parents more flexibility to share caring responsibilities. If even 1% of those out of work were able to take up a part-time job as a result of this move, it could boost economic output by around £150m a year, the Government said.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer (left), said: “For too long, working people were left without the basic rights and security they deserve. That ends now.
“The changes we’re bringing in will mean every new parent can properly take time off when they have a child, and no one is forced to work while ill just to make ends meet.
“When we respect and reward those who keep Britain running, we build a stronger economy for everyone.
Business Secretary Peter Kyle (right), added: “No one should have to worry about whether they can take time off when their baby arrives, or lose pay simply because they’ve fallen ill.
“Our improvements are about giving workers and their families the security they deserve. They will ensure our drive for growth reaches everyone through providing secure, fair paying jobs and giving support to people when they need it most.”
Analysis published last week showed that over 18m workers are set to benefit from the Government’s wider Plan to Make Work Pay, with it particularly supporting the lowest-paid workers, those in insecure jobs and people facing unfair treatment at work.
By improving the quality of work and ensuring that everyone has job security when it matters most, the Government says it’s “delivering on its mission to drive growth that’s felt by everyone.”
Niall Mackenzie, the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS) chief executive (below left), concluded: “It can be hugely stressful if a worker is not paid during an illness or dealing with a major life upheaval like a birth or bereavement.
“These new measures give greater protections for working people that get ill, and create capacity to handle unpredictable moments when they need it the most. Reducing stress and anxiety for staff can also help support good relationships with employers and support business growth.”
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