What are the family leave changes in April 2026?
From April 2026, UK law will make paternity leave and unpaid parental leave available from the first day of employment.
This means employees no longer need a minimum length of service to take these types of leave.
Is paternity leave a day one right in the UK?
Yes. From April 2026, employees can take paternity leave from day one of employment.
However:
- Statutory paternity pay may still require qualifying service
- The entitlement to leave and pay are separate
Is parental leave a day one right?
Yes. From April 2026, unpaid parental leave becomes a day one right.
Employees can:
- Take up to 18 weeks per child (as per existing rules)
- Request leave immediately after starting a job
Employers can still postpone leave in certain circumstances for business reasons.
What do employers need to do for April 2026 changes?
Employers should prepare by:
- Updating paternity and parental leave policies
- Update Employee Handbook
- Removing service requirements from contracts
- Training managers on day one rights
- Updating HR systems and processes
- Communicating changes to employees
Can employees take leave during probation?
Yes. From April 2026, employees can request and take paternity or parental leave during probation periods, as both become day one rights.
What is the difference between leave and pay?
- Leave: Available from day one
- Pay: May still require minimum service
This is a key compliance point for employers.
Summary: April 2026 UK Employment Law Changes
- Paternity leave becomes a day one right
- Parental leave becomes a day one right
- Service requirements are removed
- Pay rules remain separate
Need Help Updating Your HR Policies?
If you’re an SME, now is the time to review your contracts and policies to ensure compliance ahead of April 2026.
Tower HR can support with practical, cost-effective HR advice tailored to your business. Give us a call for a no obligation chat