A Decade of Stagnation: The Challenges of Shared Parental Leave in the UK

Ten years after its introduction, the shared parental leave (SPL) policy in the UK has been criticized for failing to achieve its intended goals. Research by The Guardian indicates that fewer than one in 60 public sector workers are utilizing SPL when welcoming a new child. The policy, which allows parents to share up to 52 weeks of leave, has seen a dismal uptake, with only 1.55% of parental leave requests in major public sector employers being for SPL from 2020 to 2025.

The GuardianThe Guardian

Analysis of data from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) reveals that 95% of SPL claims in 2024-25 were made by fathers in the top half of earners, those earning over £37,800 annually. This trend highlights a significant decline in participation among lower-income families, with the proportion of claims from average- or low-paid fathers dropping from one in ten in 2015 to one in twenty today. The last Conservative government's evaluation in 2023 found that only 1% of eligible mothers and 5% of eligible fathers utilized SPL.

The Guardian

Critics argue that SPL has become a privilege for wealthier families, exacerbating class disparities. George Gabriel, co-founder of the campaign group Dad Shift, stated, “A lost decade on, it’s clear shared parental leave is good for a handful of wealthier families in the south-east but just doesn’t work for most working fathers.” Jo Swinson, who introduced the policy, expressed disappointment over its low uptake, attributing the failure to a lack of government support and the requirement for mothers to relinquish part of their maternity leave.

The Guardian

In response to the ongoing challenges, the UK government announced an 18-month review of the parental leave system in July 2025. Employment Rights Minister Kate Dearden acknowledged the need for improvements, emphasizing that “no parent should feel they cannot spend meaningful time with their children.” However, critics warn that mere adjustments will not suffice; they advocate for more substantial reforms, including dedicated leave for fathers.

The Guardian

The implications of inadequate parental leave extend beyond individual families. Research indicates that when fathers take leave, it strengthens family bonds and contributes to overall happiness. Furthermore, improved paternity leave could help reduce the gender pay gap and potentially add £2.6 billion to the UK economy. Campaigners argue that equitable parental leave is essential for addressing entrenched gender inequalities that disproportionately affect women.

The Guardian

• “No parent should feel they cannot spend meaningful time with their children, and supporting them to do so is essential,” — Kate Dearden, Minister for Employment Rights

The Guardian

As the UK reflects on a decade of shared parental leave, the consensus among experts and advocates is clear: significant reform is necessary to ensure that all parents can access meaningful leave. The upcoming review presents an opportunity for the government to address these longstanding issues and create a more equitable system for future families.

The Guardian