How to support adoptive parents in your business

Each October, National Adoption Week shines a light on the thousands of children in the UK waiting for permanent homes, and the families who step forward to adopt them.

Employees going through the adoption process may need a wide range of help, from flexible working hours to emotional and financial support.

As an employer, it’s important to understand the rules around adoption leave and pay, as well as how to build a supportive culture to assists colleagues during this life-changing journey.

Adoption Leave entitlement in the UK

Under UK employment law, employees who adopt are entitled to statutory adoption leave and may also qualify for statutory adoption pay:

·      Up to 52 weeks of leave (26 weeks ordinary leave + 26 weeks additional leave.

·      Statutory adoption pay is paid for up to 39 weeks (at 90% of average weekly earnings for the first 6 weeks, then either statutory rate or 90% of average earnings, whichever is lower, for the remaining time).

·      Employees must provide proof of the adoption and give proper notice.

·      The main adopter is entitled to paid time off for up to five adoption appointments. The secondary adopter can take unpaid leave for up to two appointments.

·      Adoption leave can be converted into shared parental leave.

Building a supportive culture

Supporting adoptive parents can result in stronger employee engagement, loyalty and higher levels of wellbeing. Here are some things you can put in place in your business:

·      Enhanced adoption pay – if your organisation already offers enhanced maternity or paternity pay, consider matching this for adoption pay.

·      Offer flexible working to accommodate court dates, social worker meetings and adjustment periods once the child joins the family.

·      Train your managers on understanding the adoption process, avoiding inappropriate questions and maintaining confidentiality.

·      Offer counselling services or access to peer support groups for your employees and their families.

·      Celebrate inclusivity. When celebrating life events at work, make sure adoption features alongside maternity and paternity.

Need support to make sure all of your employee policies are legally compliant or to create a positive HR framework? We can help!

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