Joseph Rowntree Foundation : Paternity Leave Engagement Project
The Joseph Rowntree Foundation is an independent social change organisation headquartered in York. As part of a new project to improve paternity leave in the UK they are keen to speak to employers.
Currently, the UK has the worst offer to new dads in Europe with only two weeks of leave at a maximum of under half of the national Living Wage for a working week. Self-employed fathers receive no support whatsoever.
We would like to see the Government support a higher rate and longer length of paternity leave and ensure more fathers are eligible. For example, moving to an entitlement of two weeks off work to 6 weeks and paying dad’s more during this time with their babies – up to 90% of salary (capped). As now, we propose this salary would be covered by Government. However, an increased length could mean challenges, opportunities and practicalities for employers. Many employers already have more generous offers and their employees value the extra support.
We are really keen to hear from business organisations about their views on how paternity leave could be reformed so more fathers can have more time to spend with their babies in their first year. This would be in the form of a short conversation and the feedback would be collated as part of a wider report. If you or a colleague would like to be involved in shaping this valuable work by sharing your insights and thoughts, please get in touch with Leigh.Brunskill@jrf.org.uk to discuss next steps.
