Three new pieces of family friendly legislation have received Royal Assent this month, after being backed by Government.
The Neonatal Care (Leave and Pay) Act
The Neonatal Care (Leave and Pay) Act will allow employed parents whose new-born baby is admitted to neonatal care to receive up to 12 weeks of paid leave, in addition to other entitlements such as maternity and paternity leave.
Protection from Redundancy (Pregnancy and Family Leave) Act
There is also an extension to existing redundancy protections for those on maternity, adoption or shared parental leave known as the Protection from Redundancy (Pregnancy and Family Leave) Act. Under the new law, there will now be an extended period of time in which a parent is protected from redundancy upon their return to work.
The Carers Leave Act
Finally, the Carers Leave Act will mean employees who are caring for a dependent with a long-term care need will be able to take one week’s unpaid leave per year.
A long-term care need is defined as:
- An illness or injury that requires care for more than three months
- A disability
- Requirement for care due to old age
None of these new pieces of legislation have yet come into force, but we will keep you informed as these become law.