Starting from 6 April 2025, new statutory entitlements for Neonatal Care Leave (NCL) and Neonatal Care Pay (SNCP) came into effect, marking a significant change in workplace rights. To help both employees and employers navigate these new provisions, the government has published a comprehensive suite of guidance documents designed to clarify entitlements, eligibility, and the process for both claiming and managing these rights.
Here’s a breakdown of the key resources now available:
Statutory Neonatal Care Pay and Leave: employer guide: Overview – GOV.UK – Employers can access this guide to understand their responsibilities, including record-keeping requirements, financial assistance available for SNCP payments, and the necessary steps if an employee cancels their leave or pay.
Business changes that affect payment of Statutory Neonatal Care Pay – GOV.UK
How different employment types affect Statutory Neonatal Care Pay – GOV.UK
Manually calculate Statutory Neonatal Care Pay – GOV.UK – A guide on how to manually calculate an employee’s SNCP entitlement, ensuring employers can make accurate payments.
Tell an employee that they’re not eligible for Statutory Neonatal Care Pay (NEO1) – GOV.UK – If an employee is not eligible for SNCP, employers can use this form to inform them of their ineligibility.
Alongside government guidance, Acas also published its own advice offering further insights into how these new rights should be implemented in the workplace.
These new rights provide crucial support for families during a challenging time, and it’s essential for both employers and employees to understand how they work. Employers should familiarise themselves with the updated guidelines to ensure compliance and offer the right support to employees navigating neonatal care.
If you have any questions about the new right to Neonatal Care Leave and Neonatal Care Pay, email our Employment Team ([email protected]).
