Starting from the new tax year, new fathers employed will enjoy increased flexibility in taking paternity leave.

As per existing regulations, eligible new fathers can currently opt for either one week or two consecutive weeks of paternity leave, accompanied by entitlement to Statutory Paternity Pay (SPP). This leave must be taken within eight weeks of the child’s birth or adoption.

However, commencing April 6, 2024, significant changes will come into effect. New fathers will have the option to take up to two weeks of paternity leave at any point within the child’s first year. Furthermore, they can choose to utilize their paternity leave entitlement in a single block or as two separate weeks.

The rules regarding providing notice will also be more lenient. Presently, fathers-to-be are required to inform their employers about their intended paternity leave dates at least 15 weeks before the baby’s due date. From April 6, 2024, they will only need to inform their employer about their intention to take paternity leave by the 15-week mark, with specific leave dates only required to be specified a minimum of 28 days before each week of paternity leave.