Government proposes major reforms to support children and families

On February 5, 2013 the government announced wide sweeping changes to legislation affecting children and families.

One of the key proposals of the Children and Families Bill is the suggestion that parents should be able to share leave from work following the birth of a child. This will allow couples to decide on the arrangements that work best for them and will move away from the rigid expectation that mothers will take maternity leave following the birth of a child, while fathers return to work.

This seems to be a very positive step in allowing couples to decide how best to organise their work and home lives. This will also allow fathers to play a greater role in caring for their baby. Couples will be able to take 52 weeks leave following the birth of a child and may take the leave separately or together, provided that they do not take more than 52 weeks leave between them.

Business minister Jo Swinson said: “The new system is good for business as it will create a more motivated and flexible, talented workforce. Employers will be able to attract and retain women and prevent them from dropping out of the world of work once they start a family. Flexible working will also widen the pool of talent in the labour market, helping to drive growth.”

Under the new proposals fathers will also gain the right to take unpaid leave to attend up to two antenatal appointments. Parents who adopt a child will also be entitled to the same pay and parental leave as birth parents.

The bill also includes wide ranging provisions to ensure reform of the adoption system, in the hope of speeding up the procedure, and also of the special educational needs system to ensure that children and parents are supported and their needs are properly met.

For more information on any family or matrimonial legal issue, contact me on 01772 258321 Janine.Hutson@harrison-drury.com