New employer advice issued on parents of premature babies

Employers of parents who have had premature babies should ask them what they would like to tell their work colleagues about their situation, according to new guidelines published by Acas.

The new guidance for employers includes advice on:

  • Communications with working parents. It says they need to be approached in a sensitive and compassionate way, for instance, employers should ask parents if they are happy to be contacted and the best way to do this eg email, text or phone;
  • Fathers and partners who may need to take time off. It says employers might want to make them aware of statutory entitlements around leave and pay such as paternity and shared parental leave; and
  • Flexibility in giving time off when parents return to work as the baby may need follow up hospital appointments.

Acas Chief Executive, Anne Sharp, said: “There are over 95,000 premature or sick babies born each year in the UK.  For their families this is an emotional and difficult time.

“Working parents in these circumstances often find themselves trying to handle the demands of their job, caring for their new-born and looking after other family members.

“Our new advice helps explain the law within this complicated area in a way that will help employers support working parents whilst taking account of the needs of their business.”

*To see Acas’ full advice, please visit: www.acas.org.uk/prematurebabies



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