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Neonatal Care Leave and Pay

Details and rules around neonatal care leave and neonatal care pay. Covers eligibility, requesting neonatal care leave, rights and obligations and FAQs.

  • Newborn baby in a hospital incubator with a parent's hands.

    Notice to take Neonatal Care Leave (and Pay if eligible)

    If your baby requires specialist neonatal care after birth you may be entitled to Neonatal Care Leave and, in some cases, Pay. This page includes a template letter to give notice of taking Neonatal Leave (and Pay if eligible).

  • A baby in hospital with a feeding tube in their nose

    Neonatal Leave and Pay

    The Neonatal Care (Leave and Pay) Act is intended to support parents of babies who are admitted into neonatal care within 28 days of birth. Eligible employees will be able to take up to 12 weeks of paid leave in addition to their other family leave entitlements such as maternity and paternity leave. Neonatal Care Leave is a day-one right. The Act will come into force on 6th April 2025.