Shared Parental Leave
Shared Parental Leave allows parents to share up to 50 weeks of leave and 37 weeks of pay between them when a baby is born or adopted.
Shared Parental Leave (SPL) enables mothers to share their maternity leave and pay with their partner. Instead of the mother taking all 52 weeks, parents can split the leave between them, taking it consecutively or even simultaneously.
To use SPL, the mother must end her maternity leave early (she must take the first two weeks) and share the remaining entitlement. Eligibility requires both parents to meet certain employment and earnings criteria. Shared Parental Pay mirrors Statutory Maternity Pay rates.
SPL offers flexibility for families to choose what works for them. It enables fathers and partners to take extended time with their child and can help mothers return to work sooner if they wish. However, take-up remains low, often due to the financial impact of the partner taking time off.
Key Points
- Up to 50 weeks of leave can be shared between parents
- Up to 37 weeks of statutory pay can be shared
- Both parents must meet eligibility criteria
- Can be taken consecutively or at the same time
- Offers flexibility but take-up remains relatively low
Frequently Asked Questions
How do we decide how to split shared parental leave?
Consider career impact, finances (who has enhanced pay?), childcare preferences, and practical arrangements. There's no right answer—choose what works for your family.
Can both parents take leave at the same time?
Yes. You can take SPL together, which reduces the total duration but means both parents are home simultaneously. This can be valuable for the first weeks with a new baby.