Neonatal Care (Leave and Pay) Act 2023
From 6th April 2025, employees with babies in neonatal care will be entitled to Neonatal Care Leave and Pay. The new statutory entitlement provides for up to 12 weeks of leave for parents whose babies require neonatal care for at least 7 consecutive days and were admitted into neonatal care before reaching 28 days old.
Eligible employees may also receive Neonatal Care Pay during this period. The statutory rate of Neonatal Care Pay is expected to be paid at the same rate as statutory paternity and maternity pay (£172.48 per week, or 90% of the employee’s average weekly earnings, whichever is lower).
Neonatal Care Leave and Pay will be available in addition to any existing family leave entitlements (e.g. maternity, paternity or shared parental leave).
Eligibility Requirements:
- Neonatal Care Leave is a day one-right and will be available to employees who are responsible for a child receiving neonatal care immediately after birth.
- Neonatal Care Pay will accompany the leave, providing that the employee has been employed with the employer for a minimum of 26 weeks prior to the period of leave and earn at least £123 per week (the lower earnings limit).
- Neonatal Care Leave must be taken within 68 weeks of the child’s birth.
Full details and guidance on rates of pay and eligibility requirements are expected to follow within the coming months.