Neonatal Care (Leave and Pay) Bill Comes into Effect Today
Neonatal Care (Leave and Pay) Bill Comes into effect today (April 6th 2025)
A significant change for families with babies requiring neonatal care is set to take effect from today, with the introduction of the Neonatal Care (Leave and Pay) Bill. Tiny Lives are proud to have played a part in bringing this bill into effect. This long awaited bill provides additional support to parents facing the challenges of having a baby in neonatal care, ensuring they don’t have to choose between work and being there for their child during critical early days.
What Does the Neonatal Care Bill Mean for Parents?
The new law grants up to 12 weeks of additional paid leave to eligible employed parents whose babies require at least seven days of continuous neonatal care within the first 28 days of life. This is on top of existing parental leave entitlements, offering vital extra time for parents to focus on their baby’s health and well-being.
For many families, the neonatal journey is an emotionally and financially challenging time. This bill aims to provide greater job security and financial stability for parents, allowing them to be with their baby without the added stress of lost income or employment concerns.
Who is Eligible?
Parents can qualify for Neonatal Care Leave from day one of their employment. However, to receive Neonatal Care Pay, they must meet the same earnings threshold as Statutory Maternity or Paternity Pay.
Why Is This Bill Important?
For families with babies in neonatal intensive care units (NICU) or special care baby units (SCBU), every moment matters. The additional leave ensures that parents can be there for their child without financial strain or fear of losing their job. It also acknowledges the physical and emotional toll the neonatal experience takes on families and provides much needed support during a critical time.
A Positive Step for Neonatal Families
The introduction of this bill marks a huge step forward in recognising and supporting families facing neonatal challenges. Advocacy from charities such as Tiny Lives, parents, and healthcare professionals has played a key role in making this change happen, ensuring that no parent feels pressured to return to work before they’re ready.
Tiny Lives Offers Free Neonatal Awareness Training for Employers
Neonatal Awareness Training educates businesses on the impact of Neonatal Care on employees. Led by Tiny Lives staff Rachel Hardwick and Jacqui Adams, the 35-minute session covers key topics: an overview of Neonates and Neonatal Care, Tiny Lives’ support for families, and ways employers can assist staff with babies in Neonatal Care. The training includes a powerful firsthand account from a parent who experienced the Neonatal Unit, along with guidance on relevant laws and policies including the new Neonatal Leave and Care Bill. If your workplace may be interested in taking part in this free training session, please contact Rachel here.
Bliss have more resources available on their website including letters you can send to your employer regarding your neonatal stay.