From 6 April 2025, a new workplace right will allow parents of babies in neonatal care to take extra time off work. Eligible employees can take up to 12 weeks of neonatal care leave on top of their existing parental leave if their baby is admitted to the hospital within the first 28 days of birth and stays for at least seven full days.
This right follows the Neonatal Care (Leave and Pay) Act 2023 and aims to support families during a challenging time.
Who is Eligible?
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Neonatal Care Leave will be available from the first day of employment, meaning all eligible parents will have the right to take time off.
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Statutory Neonatal Care Pay will be available for those who meet the required length of service and earnings criteria.
What This Means for VCSE Employers
If your charity, voluntary organisation, or social enterprise employs staff, it is important to update your family leave policies to reflect this new right. This will ensure that employees are aware of their entitlements and that your organisation remains compliant with employment law.
For further guidance on how this change may affect your organisation, please contact our Core Services Team at 0191 643 2626 or email development@voda.org.uk.
