From 6 April 2025 parents of babies receiving neonatal care for seven days or more are entitled to a new form of leave under the Neonatal Care (Leave and Pay) Act 2023. This is a day-one right and the leave is paid if employees meet eligibility criteria. 

You can use this flowchart to help you understand if neonatal care leave is available to an employee whose baby needs neonatal care.

More information on the leave and pay is available on the employment law page. You can also refer to our employment law page on parental rights and infographic outlining the key points to know about neonatal care leave.

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Maternity and
parental rights

Access the factsheet on maternity, paternity, adoption and other parental rights

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