What Expectant Parents Need to Know

If you’re expecting a baby between 5 April and 25 July 2026, there’s some genuinely good news on the horizon. The rules around paternity leave are changing — and for many families, it means more flexibility, less stress, and the chance for partners to be present right from day one.

Here’s a clear, friendly guide to what’s changing, who it affects, and how to make sure you don’t miss out.

Paternity Leave From Day One
— A Major Shift

From 6 April 2026, employees will be able to take paternity leave from their very first day of employment.

Right now, you must have worked for your employer for 26 weeks before you qualify. That waiting period disappears under the new rules.

For many families — especially those who have recently changed jobs or started new roles — this is a huge step forward. It means partners won’t have to choose between job security and being present for the early days of their baby’s life.

A Temporary Notice Rule for Spring/Summer 2026 Babies

Because the law changes partway through the year, the government has introduced a temporary reduced notice period to make sure no one misses out.

From 18 February 2026, eligible parents can give just 28 days’ notice of their intention to take paternity leave.

This is a big reduction from the usual 15 weeks before the due date.

But — and this is important — the temporary rule only applies to a specific group.

You Can Use the 28‑Day Notice Rule If:

You meet both of these conditions:

•  You become newly eligible for paternity leave on 6 April 2026

(because the “day‑one” rule is what gives you eligibility)

•  Your baby’s expected due date is between 5 April and 25 July 2026

If that’s you, you can give your employer just 28 days’ notice, even if you haven’t worked there long.

This temporary rule exists to make sure parents don’t fall through the cracks during the transition.

If Your Baby Is Due on or After 26 July 2026

The usual rules return.

That means you must give your employer 15 weeks’ notice before the expected week of childbirth.

So if your due date is 26 July 2026 or later, the temporary 28‑day rule won’t apply.

If You Were Already Eligible Before 6 April 2026

Nothing changes for you.

Parents who already met the 26‑week service requirement before the new law takes effect must still give the standard 15 weeks’ notice.

The temporary rule is only for those who become eligible because of the law change.

What This Means for You

If your baby is due in that April–July window, and you’re in a new job or haven’t yet reached 26 weeks’ service, this change is designed to support you.

It means:

• You won’t miss out on paternity leave
• You can give much shorter notice
• You can take time off from day one of your employment
• You can plan with confidence, even if your job situation has recently changed

It’s a small window, but for the families it affects, it makes a real difference.