From April 6th, a significant new employment right comes into effect across England, Scotland, and Wales.
The introduction of Neonatal Care Leave and Pay will impact how businesses support employees during one of life’s most challenging times.
Understanding the Changes
The new regulations provide employed parents with up to 12 weeks of leave if their newborn requires neonatal care within 28 days of birth and spends at least seven continuous days in hospital.
During this leave, eligible employees will receive either £187.18 per week or 90% of their average weekly earnings for the full 12-week period, whichever amount is lower.
For business owners, this means:
- Updating your employment policies and handbooks
- Creating processes for handling these leave requests
- Adjusting payroll systems to accommodate the new payment requirements
- Planning for potential staff absences that could extend beyond traditional parental leave
Navigating the Ever-Changing Regulatory Landscape
This neonatal care provision is just one example of how employment legislation continuously evolves.
For small business owners already wearing multiple hats, keeping up with these changes can feel overwhelming.
The truth is, running a successful business today isn’t about knowing everything yourself—it’s about surrounding yourself with the right people who can provide expert guidance when you need it.
Building Your Support Network
Just as you might work with an accountant for financial matters or a lawyer for legal issues, having reliable advisors for other aspects of your business is equally important.
A business coach, for instance, can help you see the bigger picture and develop strategies that accommodate these regulatory changes while keeping your business profitable and growing.
A good business coach doesn’t just offer advice—they help you build resilience into your business model, so that when new regulations arise (as they inevitably will), you have the flexibility and resources to adapt without derailing your long-term goals.
Expert HR Support When You Need It
If you’re concerned about how these neonatal care regulations—or any other changing employment laws—will affect your business and your team, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
I can introduce you to a number of trusted HR professionals in my network who specialise in making these complex issues manageable for small businesses.
These HR experts can provide everything from one-time consultations to ongoing support, ensuring you stay compliant while also creating a workplace where employees feel valued and supported during significant life events.
Just reach out for a conversation about your specific situation, and I’ll connect you with the right professional for your needs.
Why lose sleep over regulatory changes when you could be focusing on what you do best—running and growing your business?
Remember, successful business owners aren’t the ones who know everything—they’re the ones who know who to ask when they need answers.
