Family Leave Rights

Starting or growing a family, or caring for loved ones, is a significant life moment, and it can feel overwhelming when work responsibilities are involved.

Employment law provides you important entitlements to take time off for family reasons, whether welcoming a child or managing unexpected care needs. We’re here to help you understand and protect those rights.

What are your rights?

You may be entitled to:

• Maternity leave: Up to 52 weeks’ leave and 39 weeks’ statutory pay.
• Paternity leave: One or two weeks (consecutive or non-consecutive) for eligible employees, paid at the statutory rate.
• Adoption leave: Up to 52 weeks’ leave and 39 weeks’ statutory pay.
• Shared parental leave: Up to 50 weeks of leave and 37 weeks’ statutory pay shared flexibly.
• Unpaid parental leave: Up to four weeks per child per year, subject to a maximum of 18 weeks per child.
• Neonatal care leave: Up to 12 weeks’ leave and statutory pay where a child spends time in neonatal care.
• Parental bereavement leave: One or two weeks’ leave (consecutive or non-consecutive) following the death of a child under 18 (including a stillbirth after 24 weeks of pregnancy), paid at the statutory rate for eligible employees.
• Unpaid carer’s leave: Up to one week’s leave per year to provide or arrange care for a dependant with a long-term care need.
• Return-to-work: Strong return-to-work protections.
• Time off for dependants: Reasonable unpaid time off for emergencies involving dependants.

Why legal support matters

Family leave rules can be complex, and mistakes by employers do happen. If you’re unsure about your entitlements or facing resistance, expert advice ensures your rights are upheld and helps you avoid unnecessary stress.

How can we support you?

We provide clear, practical guidance and strong representation if issues arise. From explaining your options to supporting you through disputes, we work proactively to achieve the best possible outcome for you.