Ordinary paternity leave

A woman’s partner, or the partner of a primary adopter, can take one or two weeks’ leave, known as “ordinary paternity leave” (OPL) around the time of the birth or adoption, to help care for the new baby or to support the mother or primary adopter. This leave must be taken within eight weeks of the birth or adoption. Only employees can take OPL. They must have 26 weeks’ service by the 15th week before the due date or the adoption matching week). OPL is paid at a statutory weekly rate (see page 64).