Day 1 Right to Paternity and Unpaid Parental Leave 

The Act introduces day-one rights to paternity leave and parental leave, bringing them into line with other family leave rights such as maternity, adoption and neonatal care. As with statutory sick pay, the right came into force on 6 April 2026, to tie in with the date when increases in the rate of statutory paternity pay took effect. However, parental leave (which is different from shared parental leave) remains unpaid.

This publication is a general summary of the law. It should not replace legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances.

Visit our main Employment Rights Act Hub for further information.Â