New Right to Neonatal Leave and Pay: What Employers Need to Know

The Neonatal Care (Leave and Pay) Act 2023 introduces a significant new right for eligible working parents, coming into force on 6 April 2025. This legislation ensures that parents of newborns requiring neonatal care can access additional leave and pay, providing much-needed support during a critical period.

What Is Neonatal Care Leave and Pay?

Neonatal care leave is designed to support parents whose babies require specialist neonatal care after birth. Under this new right, eligible employees will be entitled to up to 12 weeks of neonatal leave, in addition to their statutory maternity, paternity, or shared parental leave. This ensures that parents can spend time with their newborn without the added pressure of work commitments.

Neonatal care pay will also be available for eligible parents, mirroring statutory maternity and paternity pay. The details on the rate of pay will align with existing statutory entitlements, providing financial assistance to those needing to take time away from work.

Who Is Eligible?

To qualify for neonatal leave and pay, parents must meet certain criteria, which will likely include:

• Being an employee with a newborn admitted to hospital for neonatal care for a continuous period of at least seven days within the first 28 days of life.
• Meeting specific employment length and earnings criteria to qualify for paid leave.

More detailed eligibility requirements and guidance are expected as the implementation date approaches.

What This Means for Employers

Employers should prepare for the introduction of neonatal leave and pay by:

• Reviewing and updating family-friendly policies to include neonatal leave provisions.
• Ensuring HR teams are informed and ready to handle requests for neonatal leave.
• Budgeting for potential costs related to neonatal care pay.
• Providing support to employees, acknowledging the emotional and practical challenges faced by parents of premature or unwell newborns.

Why This Matters

The introduction of neonatal leave and pay represents a positive step in employment law, offering vital support to parents at a difficult time. Employers who follow these changes and show genuine support will build a positive reputation as a caring workplace.

If you need guidance on updating your policies or understanding how this new right impacts your business, contact Davenport Solicitors for expert legal advice.