Notice for Ordinary Paternity Leave

Employees will have to give notice to their employers of their intention to take OPL by the 15th week before the baby is expected (unless this is not reasonably practicable). (There are different notice requirements for those adopting which are discussed in Chapter 4) They must tell their employers:

• the baby’s due date;

• whether they wish to take one or two weeks’ leave; and

• when they want their leave to start.

Employees can change their mind about the date on which they want their leave to start providing they tell their employer at least 28 days in advance (unless this is not reasonably practicable).

Employees may choose to take either one or two consecutive weeks’ OPL. If they choose to take only one weeks’ leave at the time of the birth, they cannot take a second week later.

OPL can be taken from the date of the child’s birth (or placement in the case of adopted children) until 56 days after the birth.