Parental Leave in the UK Is Under Review: Here’s What to Expect

The UK's controversial parental leave and pay system is officially under review as of 1st July 2025, and millions of families across the nation are breathing a sigh of relief. This ambitious government initiative aims to support families more effectively and ensure that children receive a better start in life.

The review is a component of the 'Plan to Make Work Pay' initiative, which focuses on improving working conditions and promoting living wages.

What will the parental leave review look into?

Parental leave in the UK is often regarded as lagging behind other European countries, and this review seeks to establish more equitable systems for growing families.

Paternity leave is under scrutiny, widely regarded as being insufficient as one-third of fathers have forfeited their parental leave for financial reasons. The review will also look at the reasons behind the low uptake of shared parental leave. In addition to economic reasons, the current framework and processes are complex and restrictive, with little reward.

Why is this review critical now?

It is undeniable that the early days and weeks of a child's life are crucial for forming a strong bond with parents. The current systems restrict families economically, give a limited window for mothers to heal from childbirth, and limit fathers' time with their young children.

The economic and societal benefits of enhanced parental leave are evident in the culture surrounding it in countries like Sweden. In the 50 years since shared parental leave was introduced, the government has fostered a strong culture of gender equality that benefits everyone.

Jonathan Reynolds, Business Secretary, has noted the importance of the opportunity to "reset the system and build something that works for modern families and businesses."

Throughout the roadmap of potential reforms, stages will be guided by working parents, employers and experts in various fields. It has gained crucial support from leading organisations such as Working Families, Pregnant then Screwed and The Dad Shift.

The importance of including the voices of all parents and carers in the parental leave reform conversation is clear. Advocating for changes that support children’s development, improve parental health, and promote gender equality in the workplace is essential. This landmark review marks a significant step toward shaping a parental leave system that better reflects the needs and realities of modern working families.