PETITIONRejectedPetition · petition.parliament.uk
Increase statutory paternity leave from 2 weeks to 6 weeks on full pay.
To increase statutory paternity leave to 6 weeks, full pay & separate from maternity leave. 2 weeks is not enough for fathers to bond with their baby, support the mother or adjust to parenthood. The change would improve mental health & support family life without compromising maternal recovery.
Last fetched 03 May 2026 · petition.parliament.uk
Signatures
11
signatures
Government response threshold (10,000) · 11/10,000
Debate threshold (100,000) · 11/100,000
Background
Longer, paid paternity leave supports gender equality,maternal recovery & child development. It helps fathers bond, reduces health risks & ensures parents can adjust without sacrificing maternity time & pay. Most can’t afford leave. A modern policy must be paid, protected & separate from maternity leave. Becoming a parent is one of the BIGGEST life changes anyone can face. Fathers are at risk of depression & emotional stress—especially when trying to balance work, family & wellbeing.