Opinion

Opinion: In my view - A fair share for fathers

Last week the Prime Minister announced that the Government will go ahead with plans to make the second six months of maternity leave transferable between the parents.

This news is good for families, and also good for business. It opens up new choices to many parents about how to look after their newborn child; and by giving fathers new rights at work, it begins to tackle gender inequality in the workplace, which costs the UK so dearly.

It will be welcomed by parents because it gives them more choice about who stays at home to care for a new baby in the family. In one third of families today, the woman earns the same as or more than her partner, so it makes good sense to open up greater choice. And, regardless of family income, many fathers would like to be able to take time off work when their child is young, but only have the right to two weeks paternity leave just now. This transferable leave will enable some to take time off to care for their child while the mother returns to her job.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here