Bereaved Partner's Paternity Leave Policy

This Bereaved Partner's Paternity Leave Policy sets out an employee’s right to bereaved partner’s paternity leave. The right applies where a child’s mother, primary adopter or primary intended parent dies on or after 6 April 2026.

How bereaved partner’s paternity leave works

An eligible employee can take unpaid leave in one continuous block, from their first day of employment, to care for the child. The leave must normally be taken within the 52-week period beginning the day after the child’s birth, placement for adoption or entry into Great Britain.

What the policy covers

Eligibility and timing. It explains who is eligible, including in adoption and surrogacy cases, and when the leave can be taken.

Notice and changes. It sets out how to give notice and how to change or cancel the leave.

During and after leave. It covers pay, benefits, holiday and keeping in touch days, the right to return to work and protection from redundancy, detriment and dismissal.

The policy is designed to be read with our Bereaved Partner's Paternity Leave Guidance Notes. For paternity leave on adoption more generally, see our Paternity Leave Policy (Adoption within Great Britain).

Bereaved Partner's Paternity Leave Policy is part of Employment. Just £38.50 + VAT provides unlimited downloads from Employment for 1 year.