Good News – 12 Weeks of Paid Neonatal Care Leave for Parents: What You Need to Know

Starting Sunday, 6 April 2025, parents whose babies are admitted to neonatal care will now have a legal right to 12 weeks of paid leave, in addition to maternity, paternity, or parental leave. This important change under the UK Government’s Plan for Change will benefit around 60,000 families every year.

This is a major step in supporting working families during one of the most stressful periods of their lives — when their newborns need medical care in a neonatal unit. The aim is to give parents time to be by their baby’s side without having to worry about losing income or taking unpaid leave.

What Is Neonatal Care Leave and Pay?

Neonatal care leave gives eligible working parents an additional 12 weeks of leave and pay, starting from day one of employment, if their baby is admitted to neonatal care within the first 28 days of life and stays for at least 7 continuous days.

• This new law applies on top of existing leave, such as:
• Maternity leave
• Paternity leave
• Parental leave

The change has been introduced to relieve the emotional and financial stress for families during critical times, allowing them to bond, heal, and be present.

Why This Change Matters

Until now, many working parents had to return to work while their baby was still in neonatal care, or use their maternity/paternity leave early, leaving them with less time when their child came home. This new entitlement gives families more flexibility and peace of mind.

Employment Rights Minister Justin Madders said this measure ensures parents, regardless of where they work, get the chance to focus on their child without risking their pay.

Voices of Support from Charities and Employers

The change comes after years of campaigning by charities and organisations that support families, including:

• The Smallest Things
• Bliss
• Working Families

Catriona Ogilvy, founder of The Smallest Things, called it “stolen time returned,” giving families space to bond and recover physically and mentally.

Caroline Lee-Davey, CEO of Bliss, added that this right will allow parents to play a hands-on role in caring for their sick babies without stress.

Jane van Zyl, CEO of Working Families, welcomed the change and encouraged employers to go further, offering flexible working and enhanced neonatal policies.

Companies Already Leading the Way

Some UK businesses had already introduced neonatal care leave even before the law came into force:

• Virgin Media O2 introduced it two years ago and has seen a positive impact on employees.
• Sony Music has offered full pay for neonatal care since 2018.
• Deloitte UK gives 12 weeks of paid neonatal leave as part of a broader family support package.

What Else Is in the Employment Rights Bill?

The Employment Rights Bill aims to upgrade workers’ protections, including:

• Day-one rights for paternity, parental, and bereavement leave
• Stronger protections for pregnant women and new mothers
• Support for employees through menopause
• Tackling poor working conditions

Summary: Who Is Eligible?

To qualify for the new neonatal care leave:

• Your baby must be admitted to neonatal care within 28 days of birth
• The baby must remain in care for at least 7 full consecutive days
• The benefit is in addition to your standard maternity, paternity, or shared parental leave
• You may be eligible for pay if you meet qualifying work and income conditions

The launch of Neonatal Care Leave and Pay is a huge step towards giving families time, support, and stability during one of the most challenging phases of parenthood. It shows a clear commitment from the UK Government and employers to protect the well-being of working parents and vulnerable newborns.

As this change comes into effect, it’s vital for all eligible parents and employers to understand the new rights and how to access them.

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