Movember supporting UK fathers with push for paternal leave policy change
It’s time to advocate for the fathers in our lives. The UK currently has the worst parental leave in Europe, offering two weeks paternity leave in comparison to 15+ weeks in places like Norway, and even up to one year leave in Japan. We know the huge health benefits paternal leave has on men – on their mental health, wellbeing, and overall family life. And we know that when men are well, the benefits ripple through relationships, families, and communities. Change is needed, because healthier fathers means healthier families. To help bring about this change, Movember has partnered with The Dad Shift to campaign for UK dads and their families.
Currently in the UK, a bill of Employment Rights is making its way through the legislative process in Parliament with an important amendment calling for a review of parental leave. Alongside our partners at The Dad Shift, we have been supporting calls to review parental leave, close the parental gap and increase paternity leave for dads. This has been backed by new polling conducted by Deltapoll, which shows 56% of their respondents supported such an increase, and 68% said spending time with their family was more important than earning more money.
The Times recently published this data, citing our efforts at Movember including a quote from our Global Lead for Policy and Advocacy, Amy O’Connor who said:
" Supporting dads through increased parental leave helps improve bonds, relationships and health outcomes. The data shows that most British people want dads to have more than two weeks’ statutory leave. "
Check out our article in The Times and learn more about the Employment Rights Bill.
Make your voice heard by requesting your MP support the amendment.
Find out how through our partners at The Dad Shift.