May 24, 2011
This week, the government unveiled new flexible working regulations it claims will benefit all sectors of society.
Under plans introduced by 2015, the government will create a “modern workforce for the modern economy” particularly on the subject of parental leave, Business Secretary Vince Cable explained.
The present legislation is “too rigid” and restrictive to both workers and their managers when it comes to them taking time off around the birth of their child, said Mr Cable. And changes announced will also include a provision to allow parents to share an overall leave allowance between them to afford greater flexibility.
Under the changes, a total of seven months' flexible parental leave could be granted to new parents, with four months paid, meaning new fathers could qualify for almost six months' paid paternity leave if their partner returns to work.
"These measures are fairer for fathers and maintain the existing entitlements for mothers - but crucially give parents much greater choice over how to balance their work and family commitments,” said Mr Cable.
If you’re unsure about what the government’s changes could mean for you or your business, contact our employment law team today and make sure you benefit from upcoming reforms.
