More information can be found in the Paternity Leave Policy.
Below are some FAQ and link to form which needs to be completed
1. Am I eligible for Paternity leave?
You must have worked for the Charity for a continuous period of 26 weeks by the week that falls 15 weeks before the week in which the child is expected to be born. In respect of an adopted child, the period is calculated as the week in which the child’s adopter is notified of having been matched with the child for adoption. You must also meet each of the following eligibility criteria:
- You have, or expect to have, responsibility for the upbringing of the child.
- You are either the biological father of the child or you are married to the civil partner of the child, or you are one of the couple jointly adopting a child
- You are making the request to care for the child or support the child’s mother or adopter
2. How much Paternity Leave am I entitled to?
If eligible, you can take this in a single block of two weeks or two blocks of one week.
Paternity Leave can start either from the date the child is born or from a chosen number of days or weeks after the date of childbirth (or in respect of an adopted child, from the date of placing for adoption). It can start on any day of the week, but it must be completed within eight weeks of the date of childbirth (or date of placement for adoption). If the child is born early, it must be completed within the period from the date of childbirth up to eight weeks after the expected date of childbirth.
In the case of multiple births, for example twins, note that the only one period of Paternity Leave is available.
3. What will I be paid?
During Paternity Leave, most colleagues will be entitled to paternity pay. This is set at 90% of a week’s wage for each week you are absent; this will be off set against any payments made by Statutory Paternity Pay. Colleagues who earn less than the lower earnings limit for National Insurance purposes are not eligible to receive statutory paternity pay.
4.What do I need to do?
If you wish to request to take Paternity Leave, you must inform your Line Manager in writing of your request no later than the 15th week before the expected week of childbirth.
You must provide written details of when the child is due, whether you wish to take one or two week’s Paternity Leave and when you want your Paternity Leave to start- You must also complete a SC3 form.
In the case of an adopted child, you must give written notice of your intention to take Paternity Leave no later than seven days after the date on which the notification of the match with the child is given by the adoption agency. The notice must specify the date on which the adopter was notified of having been matched with the child, the date the child is expected to be placed for adoption, whether you wish to take one- or two-week’s Paternity Leave and when you want your Paternity Leave to start.
5. Can I change the date of my Paternity Leave?
You are able to change your mind about the date on which you want your Paternity Leave to start provided this is authorised by your Line Manager.
Helpful Links
Paternity Overview for staff member