Law firm Boodle Hatfield has introduced a gender-neutral parental leave policy, which the employer believes is a market first for an independent London law firm.
The equal opportunity parental leave policy is available to all employees and partners across the firm. It offers 26 weeks fully paid leave, spread across 39 weeks, irrespective of gender. It also includes new support for those undergoing fertility treatment, with five days paid leave a year for appointments and treatment.
The new policy, which was previously known as maternity, paternity, shared parental and adoption leave, is open to primary and secondary parents and carers, including adopters for all employees and partners with 12 months service.
Andrea Zavos, senior partner at Boodle Hatfield, a private wealth and real estate law firm, has led the initiative for the employer.
The policy was launched following a review of benefits for the firm’s employees and partners and is part of a phased rollout of new benefits.
Zavos said: “Providing access to flexible parental leave no matter your gender reflects our dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive working environment.
“We understand the challenges that come with balancing a personal and professional life, particularly when raising a family. We want to support our people to build their careers and fulfil their potential in and out of the workplace.
“We are pleased to be early adopters of equal opportunity policy changes and to provide a more comprehensive offering to our team and one that clearly aligns with our values.”
