The UK government has embarked on a landmark review of the country's parental leave and pay system, aiming to modernize and improve support for working families. This initiative comes amid growing concerns that the current framework is outdated and insufficient for the needs of modern parents.

Current System Under Scrutiny

Statutory maternity leave in the UK currently allows new mothers to take up to 52 weeks off work, with pay provided for 39 weeks. During the first six weeks, mothers receive 90% of their average weekly earnings, followed by a lower rate of either £187.18 per week or 90% of their earnings for the remaining 33 weeks. Fathers, on the other hand, are entitled to just two weeks of paid paternity leave, which is similarly capped at £187.18 per week or 90% of their earnings, whichever is lower.

Calls for Change

Campaigners have long criticized the system as one of the worst in the developed world, citing its fundamental flaws and the financial barriers it imposes on families. The Dad Shift, a campaign group advocating for parental leave reform, described the review as the "best chance in a generation" to create a system that truly supports working families. The Women and Equalities Committee's June report called for bold action, warning that significant investment would be necessary to address these issues.

Government's Commitment to Reform

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds has acknowledged the need for a comprehensive overhaul, stating that the system has not been seriously reviewed for decades. He emphasized the importance of creating a framework that balances the needs of parents and businesses, without imposing additional financial burdens on employers. "The arrival of a child is a life-changing moment," Reynolds said. "We want to make sure parents get the support they need to balance work and family life."

Protests and Public Sentiment

Recent protests in London and Edinburgh highlighted the public's demand for better paternity leave, with demonstrators arguing that improved leave policies could help close the gender pay gap by enabling families to share childcare responsibilities more equitably. Angela Rayner, the deputy prime minister, stressed the importance of supporting working parents, noting that the early years are crucial for families and the economy alike.