Parenting, Childcare & Caring

What do we mean by Parenting, Childcare & Caring?

When we talk about Parenting, Childcare & Caring in relation to your games business, we simply mean the policies and perks you provide to help your team members balance their work and family life. This could include things like parental leave, caring leave, flexible work arrangements, childcare support, and access to family planning resources – all designed to keep your employees happy and thriving both at work and at home.

What is UK law on Parenting, Childcare & Caring in the Workplace?

UK Parenting, Childcare & Caring laws are all about making sure your team has the support they need when it comes to their family life and responsibilities. These laws cover everything from maternity and paternity leave to adoption leave, shared parental leave, and even time off for dependants, as well as more recently introduced legislation for those with other caring responsibilities. By following these regulations, you’re creating a healthy work-life balance and making sure your employees feel valued and protected.

In terms of leave policies, your team members have the right to take time off when they have a baby, adopt a child, or need to care for their family. Maternity leave allows mums-to-be to take up to 52 weeks off, with Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) available for 39 of those weeks.

New dads or partners can take up to 2 weeks of paternity leave with Statutory Paternity Pay (SPP). Adoptive parents can also enjoy adoption leave, and parents can even share leave through the shared parental leave scheme. Lastly, it’s essential to keep in mind that UK law protects your employees from discrimination based on their family planning choices. The Equality Act 2010 makes sure that everyone gets treated fairly, regardless of their pregnancy, maternity, or paternity status.

The Carer’s Leave Regulations 2024, which came into force on April 6th 2024, granted new employment rights for people who juggle unpaid caring responsibilities with paid employment. These regulations introduced a new statutory right to unpaid carer’s leave for employees in Scotland, England and Wales.

As a games business owner, it’s your job to ensure that you accommodate your employees’ needs and provide a supportive work environment.

Last updated September 2024