Here at Edith & George, we're always thinking about the journey of parenthood – the incredible joy, the overwhelming love, and yes, sometimes the unexpected challenges. That's why we wanted to share some really positive news that has just come into effect, as of April 6th, 2025: new and improved leave and pay rights for parents whose babies need neonatal care.
This significant change, announced by the government, means that thousands of eligible new parents each year will now have a day one right to additional leave and pay if their child is admitted into neonatal care. This entitlement offers up to 12 weeks of leave (and, if eligible, pay) on top of any other leave they may be entitled to, including maternity and paternity leave.
As Employment Rights Minister Justin Madders stated, speaking with campaigners, "The campaigners and parents who have had to experience their children in neonatal care are an inspiration to us all and show just how much this new leave and pay entitlement is needed for families up and down the UK." He further emphasized the government's aim to create "a level playing field that ensures parents, wherever they work, have the vital relief they need to switch off from work and focus on their newborn baby."
Women’s Health Minister Baroness Merron echoed this sentiment, saying, "No parent should have to choose between being with their vulnerable newborn or returning to work. Our action today will make all the difference to families going through an incredibly stressful time. We are giving parents peace of mind so they can focus on their family."
This new Neonatal Care Leave will apply to parents of babies who are admitted into neonatal care up to 28 days old and who have a continuous stay in neonatal care of 7 full days or longer. The aim is to relieve some of the immense pressure on working families during this incredibly challenging time, allowing them to be by their child’s side without the added burden of work or using up their existing leave.
Catriona Ogilvy, founder of the parent-led charity The Smallest Things, who campaigned tirelessly for this change, said, "The Smallest Things is thrilled that Neonatal Care Leave and Pay will finally be available to families from tomorrow (6 April)... Neonatal Leave will give families back stolen time. Time to be with their baby without the worry of work or pay. Time to bond. And time to begin to recover - both physically and mentally."
Bliss Chief Executive Caroline Lee-Davey also warmly welcomed the news, stating, "At Bliss we know just how important it is that babies born premature or sick have both parents at their side in neonatal care... That is why Bliss is so proud to have led campaigning for the introduction of the Neonatal Care (Leave & Pay) Act, which will provide thousands of employed parents every year with the assurance that they can take the time to be with their sick baby when they need it most."
What does this mean for you?
If your baby requires neonatal care, these new rights offer:
- A day one right to additional paid leave (if eligible): Providing crucial time with your baby from the start of your employment.
- Up to 12 weeks of extra leave: On top of existing maternity, paternity, or adoption leave.
- Reduced financial strain: Allowing you to focus on your baby's well-being without immediate pressure to return to work.
At Edith & George we believe in supporting families through every stage of parenthood and we're familiar with the rollercoaster experience of a new baby in neo natal care. This new legislation is a significant step forward in providing vital support to those facing the immense challenges of having a baby in neonatal care. We encourage you to share this information and help ensure that all eligible parents are aware of their new rights.
