Constituents have contacted me regarding changes to paternity leave. I recognise the benefits that paternity leave and pay offer to both parents and children, and I appreciate the important points raised. Currently, one in three dads does not take paternity leave because they can’t afford to, and take-up of shared parental leave remains very low. The system is complicated, does not always give people the support they need and must modernise to deliver for today’s families.
That is why I welcome the Government’s recently launched review of parental leave and pay to better support working families and help children get the best start in life. The review will look at leave, pay, and the length of leave available to fathers and partners. I understand it will cover the whole system, considering all types of leave – including maternity, paternity and shared parental leave – with a view to ensuring that it is fairer and easier to use. It will gather views from parents, employers, and experts across the country and should conclude in early 2027, at which point the Government will set out its findings and the next steps for potential reform.
I welcome that this review is part of an ambitious agenda to overhaul workers’ rights and make work pay, by ensuring there is more flexibility and security for working families. In April 2026, paternity leave and parental leave became day one rights, as part of the Employment Rights Act that became law at the end of last year. The legislation also includes making flexible working the default, to ensure more flexible working requests are agreed. We must support workers to balance their work with the essential responsibilities of their wider lives, including looking after children.
I look forward to following the progress the Government makes in delivering the review so that we can provide the best possible support for parents trying to balance their work and home lives.
Thank you once again for contacting me about this important issue.
Best wishes
Rt Hon Hilary Benn
MP for Leeds South
[email protected] l www.hilarybennmp.com l X @hilarybennmp