More parents are being encouraged to take up Shared Parental Leave by a new government campaign.
Currently around 285,000 couples qualify for the scheme every year. However, take-up has remained stubbornly low at around two per cent.
The ‘Share the joy’ campaign is part of the government’s commitment to raise awareness of employment rights, in an effort to boost job satisfaction and productivity. A range of tools will be used to reach parents, including digital website advertising, social media, adverts in train stations and on commuter routes, as well as a new website that provides detailed information and guidance.
‘Providing parents with choice and flexibility in how they balance childcare responsibilities is a key step towards achieving equality in the workplace and beyond,’ said Minister for Women, Victoria Atkins. ‘Shared parental leave is good for parents, children and employers. I am very pleased that this campaign will raise awareness of its benefits and, as a result, give more parents the chance to make informed decisions about what’s best for their families.’
Shared Parental Leave allows eligible parents to share up to 50 weeks of leave and 37 weeks of pay after having a baby. They can take time off separately or they can be at home together for up to six months.
