Paternity Leave
Paternity leave is time off work for fathers or partners following the birth or adoption of a child, with statutory entitlements to leave and pay.
Paternity leave entitles eligible employees to up to two weeks off work following the birth or adoption of a child. This must be taken within 56 days of the birth or placement. The leave can be taken as one or two consecutive weeks, not individual days.
Statutory Paternity Pay (SPP) is £184.03 per week (2024/25) or 90% of average weekly earnings, whichever is lower. Many employers offer enhanced paternity pay, and some offer additional paternity leave beyond the statutory two weeks.
Shared Parental Leave offers more flexibility, allowing parents to share up to 50 weeks of leave and 37 weeks of pay between them. This enables fathers or partners to take more time off if the mother returns to work early.
Key Points
- Up to 2 weeks' statutory paternity leave
- Must be taken within 56 days of birth or adoption
- Statutory Paternity Pay for up to 2 weeks
- Many employers offer enhanced paternity leave and pay
- Shared Parental Leave allows more flexible arrangements
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take paternity leave if I'm not the biological father?
Yes. Paternity leave is available to the mother's partner if you'll have responsibility for the child's upbringing, regardless of biological relationship or gender.
What if my employer only offers statutory paternity leave?
Two weeks at statutory pay is the legal minimum. Consider whether Shared Parental Leave might allow more time off if your partner is willing to share their maternity leave.