Are you already on parental leave?
Congratulations on becoming a new parent! It’s an exciting and challenging journey, and we’re here to help you along the way. Check out our website for useful tips and resources and keep checking our calendar for baby-friendly networking events where you can meet other new parents and share your experiences. We also encourage you to sign up for our mentoring program, where you can get one-on-one support from a seasoned parent/ GP hybrid. We’re here to support you every step of the way!
Parental Leave
Parental Leave in the UK
In the UK, the different types of parental leave include maternity leave, paternity leave, adoption leave, shared parental leave, and parental leave. Maternity leave entitles mothers to up to 52 weeks of leave and up to 39 weeks of Statutory Maternity Pay. Fathers are entitled to up to 2 weeks of paternity leave and up to 2 weeks of Statutory Paternity Pay. Adoptive parents are entitled to up to 52 weeks of adoption leave and up to 39 weeks of Statutory Adoption Pay.
Shared parental leave allows parents to share up to 50 weeks of leave and up to 37 weeks of pay. Parental leave provides up to 18 weeks of unpaid leave per child. For more information, visit the UK government’s website on parental leave: https://www.gov.uk/parental-leave.
If you’re planning to send your child to a nursery in the UK, start looking at least 6-12 months before you go back to work. Some nurseries have waiting lists, so it’s good to be prepared. When you’re choosing a nursery, think about things like where it’s located, how much it costs, and how the environment and staff make you feel. You can visit the nursery to see what it’s like. The UK government has more info about choosing childcare on its website.
Helpful resources for new parents
Here is a list of some UK websites and apps that are helpful for new parents:
- Peanut: A social networking app for mothers, where you can connect with other mothers for advice, support, and friendship. https://www.peanut-app.io/
- Hoop: A website and app that helps you find baby and toddler classes and activities in your area. https://hoop.co.uk/
- BabyCentre: A website with information and advice on pregnancy, birth, and parenting. https://www.babycentre.co.uk/
- NHS Pregnancy and Baby Guide: A website with information on pregnancy, birth, and parenting, provided by the UK’s National Health Service. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/
- La Leche League: A website with information and support for breastfeeding mothers. https://www.laleche.org.uk/
- Kellymom: A breastfeeding and parenting resource, providing evidence-based information and support to families. https://kellymom.com/