Essential information for members who are parents or are planning to be parents, and for carers, as well as for stewards who are advising them and negotiating with employers.
Maternity leave and pay
Basic maternity rights apply to everyone, but what you are entitled to will vary depending on who your employer is and how long you have worked there.
Paternity leave and pay
You may be able to take one or two weeks' paternity leave to look after your baby and support your partner.
Adoption leave and pay
Parents who are adopting have the right to take adoption leave, which works in a similar way to maternity and paternity leave.
Shared parental leave
The shared parental leave and pay scheme applies to couples in paid work following the birth or adoption of a child, including adoption overseas, and surrogacy arrangements.
Other types of parental or dependents' leave
Other forms of parental or family leave include unpaid parental leave, time off for family emergencies or parental bereavement leave. There are limited statutory rights for employees who are carers of adults.
Flexible working
If you have been with your employer for long enough, you can make a request for flexible working – but they are not obliged to accept it.
NHS and non-NHS terms and conditions
Whether you are entitled to more than the minimum legal rights to parental leave will depend on where you are employed
Getting the best for your members
If you're a CSP rep then it's a good idea to get familiar with the various legal entitlements that exist for parents, parents-to-be and carers. There are also steps you can take to negotiate a family-friendly workplace.
