Adoption & Surrogacy

Understanding pay and entitlement

Navigating adoption and surogacy paternity leave

Understanding adoption and surrogacy

Adoption and surrogacy are significant aspects of family planning that employers need to understand to support their employees effectively.

These processes have their own unique challenges and considerations that require careful attention and support from employers, so be sure to familiarise yourself with them to ensure a smooth process.

When can my paternity leave commence?

Eligible employees have the flexibility to commence their leave at various points in the adoption or surrogacy process. This includes the date of placement for adoptions, the arrival of the child in the UK for overseas adoptions, or the birth of the child for surrogate parents (or the day after if you’re working on the day).

Additionally, employees can opt to start their paternity leave on a date of their choosing that falls after the date of birth or placement.

However, it’s crucial to provide employers with a 28-day notice if there’s a need to change the initially selected start date, ensuring sufficient time for adjustments to be made accordingly.

When does my paternity leave end?

For adoption in the UK and overseas

If the child is expected to be placed or arrive in England, Scotland, or Wales:

Before 6^th April 2024: Your paternity leave must end within 56 days of the placement or arrival date.
On or after 6^th April 2024: Your paternity leave must end within 52 weeks of the placement or arrival date.

For surrogate parents

If the child is expected to be born:

On or before 6^th April 2024: Your paternity leave must end within 56 days of the child’s birth.
After 6^th April 2024: Your paternity leave must end within 52 weeks of the child’s birth.

Handling surrogacy paternity leave

Surrogacy arrangements involve unique considerations, and employers should ensure that surrogate parents receive the necessary support and accommodations during this time. It’s essential to understand the expected timeline of the surrogacy journey to plan paternity leave effectively.