The UK government has today announced that, subject to Parliamentary approval, the new legislation will take effect from 6 April 2025 following the passing of the Neonatal Care (Leave and Pay) Act in 2023.
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 hospital of 7 full days or longer.
✅ allow eligible parents to take up to 12 weeks of leave (and, if eligible, pay).
✅ be on top of any other leave they may be entitled to, including maternity and paternity leave.
This will no doubt come as a huge relief to expectant parents who, for whatever reason, may need additional support at a vulnerable and distressing time in their lives.