Paternity Pay is financial support provided to eligible fathers or partners when a child is born or adopted. It ensures that new fathers can take time off work to bond with their child without facing complete loss of income. In 2025, the UK Government has made some important updates to paternity leave and pay rules, making it easier and more flexible for new dads. These changes are designed to support family life, promote shared parenting, and ensure fathers are more involved in early childcare responsibilities.
Key Changes in Paternity Pay 2025
From April 2025, major updates were introduced in the UK paternity leave and pay system. One of the biggest changes is that fathers now have more flexibility in how they take their leave. Instead of being required to take two consecutive weeks, they can split their leave into separate blocks within the first year of their child’s birth. Additionally, the pay system has been updated, with the weekly rate adjusted to align with inflation and rising living costs. These changes are aimed at reducing financial pressure and encouraging more fathers to take time off.
Eligibility Criteria for Paternity Pay
Not every father automatically qualifies for paternity pay. To be eligible, you must be either the child’s biological father, the mother’s spouse, partner, or civil partner. You must also have worked continuously for your employer for at least 26 weeks up to the 15th week before the baby is due. Additionally, your average weekly earnings must be above the lower earnings limit set by HMRC. If you meet these conditions, you are entitled to statutory paternity leave and pay. Employers may also offer enhanced paternity packages, so it’s worth checking your company’s policy.
How Much Paternity Pay Do Fathers Get in 2025
As of 2025, statutory paternity pay in the UK is the lower of either £184.03 per week or 90% of your average weekly earnings, whichever is lower. This rate is reviewed each year in line with inflation. While this amount may not fully cover household expenses, it provides vital support during time off. Some employers may offer enhanced pay schemes, which can significantly increase the financial benefit. For example, some companies match full salary for a fixed period, making it easier for fathers to take paternity leave without worrying about financial strain.
How Long is Paternity Leave in the UK
In 2025, fathers can take up to two weeks of statutory paternity leave, but the updated rules now allow greater flexibility. You can choose to take the two weeks together or split them into separate one-week blocks. This gives fathers the chance to spend time with their child at different stages during the first year. For example, you may choose to take one week immediately after birth and another week later when the baby is older. This new flexibility is a welcome change for many working fathers balancing job responsibilities with family life.
Step-by-Step Process to Claim Paternity Pay
To claim statutory paternity pay, you need to follow a clear process. First, inform your employer that you intend to take paternity leave. You must give at least 15 weeks’ notice before the expected week of childbirth. Provide the relevant forms, such as the SC3 form, confirming your relationship to the child and intended leave dates. Your employer will then confirm eligibility and arrange payment. Paternity pay is usually processed in the same way as wages, subject to tax and National Insurance deductions. Following the proper steps ensures your leave is approved without issues.
Rights and Protections for Fathers on Leave
Fathers taking paternity leave are legally protected from unfair treatment. Your job is secure during your absence, and you have the right to return to the same role or a similar one with the same conditions. Employers cannot dismiss or disadvantage you for taking leave. Additionally, holiday entitlement continues to build up while on paternity leave. This ensures fathers are not penalised for prioritising family. The new 2025 rules strengthen these protections, encouraging more fathers to make use of their leave without fear of discrimination or negative career impact.
Flexible Working Requests After Paternity Leave
Another significant update in 2025 is the ability for fathers to request flexible working more easily after returning from leave. The government has introduced measures to support work-life balance, allowing new parents to request adjustments such as remote working, compressed hours, or part-time schedules. Employers are required to consider such requests fairly and respond within a shorter timeframe than before. This gives fathers more control over their schedules, enabling them to continue playing an active role in childcare beyond the initial paternity leave period.
Paternity Leave for Adoptive Parents
Paternity pay and leave are not limited to biological fathers. Adoptive parents and partners also qualify under the same statutory rules. The 2025 update has reinforced equality by ensuring adoptive parents receive the same flexibility in splitting leave. This is an important step in supporting diverse families and recognising the vital role all parents play in raising a child. Whether through adoption or biological birth, partners are entitled to share early parenting responsibilities and benefit from financial support during their time off.
Combining Paternity Pay with Shared Parental Leave
One of the most flexible options for families in 2025 is the combination of paternity pay with Shared Parental Leave (SPL). After taking statutory paternity leave, fathers can opt into SPL, which allows both parents to share up to 50 weeks of leave and up to 37 weeks of pay. This arrangement provides families with more choice in how they organise time off, giving fathers the chance to be more present during the crucial first year. The new 2025 rules make it easier to transition from paternity leave to SPL.
Financial Planning Tips for New Fathers
Although paternity pay provides support, it is often less than a full salary, so planning ahead is important. Fathers should review their household budget and identify areas where they can save money during their leave. It’s also helpful to check if your employer offers enhanced paternity packages or other family benefits. Some workplaces also provide access to childcare vouchers or employee support schemes. Planning your finances in advance ensures you can fully enjoy your paternity leave without unnecessary stress about money.
Why the 2025 Update Matters for Families
The 2025 paternity pay update is a significant step towards promoting equality in childcare. By giving fathers more flexibility and better protections, the government is recognising the importance of shared parenting. Studies show that when fathers are more involved from the start, children benefit emotionally, socially, and developmentally. These changes also support mothers, allowing them to return to work sooner if they wish, while knowing their partner is also providing care. Overall, the update reflects a positive shift towards more family-friendly policies in the UK.
Final Thoughts
The UK Paternity Pay 2025 update gives new fathers more flexibility, financial support, and workplace protections than before. With the ability to split leave, access enhanced pay in some workplaces, and request flexible working after returning, fathers now have greater opportunities to balance career and family life. Understanding the eligibility rules, payment process, and your legal rights is essential to making the most of these benefits. For new dads, this is a valuable chance to bond with your child during their earliest days without sacrificing job security or financial stability.