Professional June 2025

COMPLIANCE

notice in some cases, at what’s expected to be a very difficult and sensitive time for employees. Although the right to SNCL is available to all employees, SNCP, payable at statutory rates, requires employees to have been employed for at least 26 weeks (by the expected week of childbirth) and meet the lower earnings limit threshold (currently £125 a week). This will be welcomed by parents, alleviating the financial concerns which accompany time off from work and encouraging parents to make use of the entitlement. All employers should be updating their policies to reflect this new leave entitlement. The Government has committed to a wider review of all parental rights, and alongside the changes proposed under the Employment Rights Bill, it’s a good time to consider how parents are being supported at work 5 . Employers should commit to supporting employees by highlighting their rights and entitlements.

challenges. Additionally, it’s a great opportunity to offer training not only on SNCL but on the wider family friendly rights which are set to be strengthened in the coming months. Redundancy procedures should also be amended to account for the extended protection given to parents taking SNCL. Most importantly, it’s easy to get caught up in the procedural complexities of the Act but it’s crucial to remain sensitive and flexible while families are facing such challenging times. Employers can: l waive notice requirements l offer enhanced pay l allow the use of other types of leave (e.g. compassionate) l aid the transition back to work with

flexible working, reasonable adjustments and partial returns. Employers can also provide confidential support, whether that be through a line manager, an employee assistance programme or a support line. Remember, the introduction of neonatal care leave and pay is only a good thing for both employees and their employers. It’s landmark legislation which will benefit the parents of over 90,000 babies in the UK.

Links corner 1. https://ow.ly/CqGX50VIJPq 2. https://ow.ly/SguT50W09mf 3. https://ow.ly/GcUg50VIMyF 4. https://ow.ly/EKFM50VIMEx 5. https://ow.ly/r1RX50VIMHE.

Not only will this make employees feel supported, but well-informed

employees will be more engaged. This will subsequently allow employers to better prepare for staffing, workload and welfare

NATIONAL MINIMUM WAGE MASTERCLASS

Four half-day sessions over consecutive weeks

Unlock the complexities of National Minimum Wage (NMW) compliance with this masterclass training course hosted by renowned payroll expert Jeni Morris, who is one of the UK’s leading specialists in minimum wage compliance. By attending, you will be better equipped to ensure your payroll processes are fully compliant, thereby safeguarding your organisation or clients against potential audits and penalties.

Scan to book

For more information or to book your place, please visit ippe.org.uk/training or scan the QR code

A subsidiary of the Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals

A subsidiary of the Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals

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| Professional in Payroll, Pensions and Reward

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Issue 111 | June 2025

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