Parents and carers are set to benefit from new work rights after three bills were granted royal assent.
The Neonatal Care (Leave and Pay) Act will enable parents of children admitted to neonatal care to take up to 12 weeks of paid leave in addition to other pay and leave entitlements, such as maternity and paternity.
Under the Protection from Redundancy Act, pregnant women and new parents will not have to worry about losing their jobs as the protection will cover them throughout pregnancy and for some time after they return to the workplace.
For employees who have dependants with long-term needs, the Carer’s Leave Act will give them one week of flexible unpaid leave each year, allowing them better balance their work and caring duties and enabling them to keep their jobs.
Business minister Kevin Hollinrake said: “We know how stressful it can be for parents caring for a new-born in neonatal care, or someone who is trying to juggle work with caring responsibilities, and these additional protections will ensure they get the support they need.
Over the past year, we have proven our commitment to supporting workers across the UK, including raising the national living wage to its highest yet. Protecting and enhancing workers’ rights whilst supporting businesses to grow remains a priority for this government and a dynamic labour helps to drive up wages, employment and economic growth.”
The new employee rights have been welcomed by many charities, including Carers UK which described the move as “a historic moment for unpaid carers” having campaigned for the introduction of carers’ leave for many years.
Chief executive Helen Walker said: “The evidence is clear: being able to take leave from work to support an older, disabled or seriously ill relative makes a huge difference to carers’ lives and can help them stay in paid work.
“Managing these dual responsibilities is often stressful and demanding. Being able to use carers’ leave will remove guilt for many workers needing to take some time out to care, or having to use their annual leave – their own rest time.
“There are big benefits for businesses too – those who have already introduced carers’ leave have seen reduced recruitment costs and improved staff retention and wellbeing.
“With our ageing demographic, and loved ones with illnesses and disabilities living for longer, the majority of us can expect to care for a loved one in our working lives. This legislation sets us up for the future and we hope it will see employers give greater consideration to the needs of carers in their workforces.”
