Neonatal leave and pay regulations now in force

New statutory entitlements to neonatal leave and pay came into effect on 6 April 2025, following approval in both Houses of Parliament.

The Neonatal Care Leave and Miscellaneous Amendments Regulations 2025 (SI 2025/375) and the Statutory Neonatal Care Pay (General) Regulations 2025 (SI 2025/376) confirm the legal provisions for up to 12 weeks of neonatal leave and pay for eligible employees.

Guidance and forms to support the new rights have been published by the Department for Business and Trade and HM Revenue and Customs, and are available via the gov.uk website.

In addition, Acas has issued guidance on the new regulations through its industrial relations advisory and conciliation service.