Statutory Paternity Leave
How and when to notify your employer about taking paternity leave.
Financial Support
Last updated: 5 September 2026
What it is about
Statutory Paternity Leave gives partners protected time off work following the birth of their baby.
What is involved
You are entitled to take up to 2 weeks' Paternity Leave.
Timeframes
There are two key deadlines for notifying your employer:
- You must tell your employer the baby's due date at least 15 weeks before the baby is expected. We set your milestone precisely for this date.
- You must also tell your employer the start date and whether you are taking 1 or 2 weeks at least 28 days before you actually want to take the leave.
What you benefit from
You receive up to 2 weeks of leave to spend time with your newborn and support your family.