Family leave
Maternity, paternity, adoption, shared parental and parental leave. Different rights, different notice.
Please note: This page explains what a term means. It is general information, not legal, financial, tax or investment advice, and it does not know anything about your business. Before you sign, file or commit to anything, check it with an accountant, a solicitor, or the official guidance we link to.
What it means
The statutory family leave rights include maternity leave and pay, paternity leave and pay, adoption leave, shared parental leave and pay, unpaid parental leave, and neonatal care leave.
Why it matters
Each has its own eligibility, notice requirements and pay rules, and getting the notice wrong can cost the employee the right. The employer administers all of it through payroll.
What it looks like in practice
Most statutory payments can be reclaimed from HMRC, in full or in part, and small employers can reclaim more. That is worth knowing before budgeting for it as a cost.
What to watch out for
Treating a pregnancy or family leave as a reason for a decision. Pregnancy and maternity are protected characteristics and dismissal or detriment connected to them needs no qualifying service to claim.
Where to get proper advice
ACAS: free guidance, free templates and a free helpline. An employment solicitor for anything contested or senior.
Where to read more
Last reviewed 2026-08-28 by Fiducia Together · Next review due 2027-08-28
Please note: This page explains what a term means. It is general information, not legal, financial, tax or investment advice, and it does not know anything about your business. Before you sign, file or commit to anything, check it with an accountant, a solicitor, or the official guidance we link to.
Fiducia Together