Question 1

How much parental leave am I entitled to in the UK?

Accepted Answer

In the UK, you can take up to 18 weeks of unpaid parental leave per child up to their 18th birthday, with a maximum of 4 weeks per year per child. Additionally, Shared Parental Leave allows parents to share up to 50 weeks of leave and 37 weeks of pay if the mother ends her maternity leave early.

Question 2

What is Shared Parental Leave in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Shared Parental Leave allows parents to share up to 50 weeks of leave and 37 weeks of pay. The mother must end her maternity leave early to share it. Both parents must meet eligibility criteria similar to maternity/paternity leave requirements.

Question 3

How is Shared Parental Pay calculated in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Shared Parental Pay is calculated at £172.48 per week or 90% of your average weekly earnings (whichever is lower), for up to 37 weeks shared between parents. This is the same rate as Statutory Maternity Pay after the first 6 weeks.

Question 4

Can parental leave be shared between parents in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Shared Parental Leave can be shared between parents, giving families flexibility in how they divide the leave. Parents can take the leave in blocks or continuously, as long as it's taken within 52 weeks of birth.

Question 5

What's the difference between parental leave and Shared Parental Leave?

Accepted Answer

Parental leave is unpaid leave (up to 18 weeks per child) that can be taken until the child is 18. Shared Parental Leave is paid leave (up to 50 weeks shared, 37 weeks paid) that must be taken within 52 weeks of birth and requires the mother to end her maternity leave early.

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