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

Ten years after the introduction of shared parental leave (SPL) in the UK, experts are expressing concerns over a “lost decade” of progress in parental rights. Research indicates that fewer than one in 60 public sector workers are utilizing this leave option, which allows parents to share up to 52 weeks of leave, including 39 weeks of statutory pay. Data from Freedom of Information requests reveals that only 1.55% of parental leave requests across major public sector employers were for SPL between 2020 and 2025.

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Analysis by the campaign group Dad Shift highlights that 95% of SPL claims in 2024-25 were made by fathers in the top half of earners, earning over £37,800 annually. The share of SPL claimed by lower earners has consistently declined since the policy's inception, with only one in 20 claims now coming from average- or low-paid fathers. George Gabriel, co-founder of Dad Shift, stated that SPL has become a class issue, benefiting wealthier families while excluding many working fathers from early bonding time with their children.

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In response to the ongoing issues with SPL, 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 unable to spend meaningful time with their children. However, critics, including Jo Swinson, who introduced the policy, argue that the current system requires significant reform, including the introduction of dedicated leave for fathers and a more equitable distribution of parental leave benefits.

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The existing SPL framework has been criticized for its complexity and financial impracticality. Many employers offer enhanced maternity pay but not equivalent benefits for fathers, leading to a financial disincentive for families to utilize SPL. Furthermore, a 2023 evaluation by the last Conservative government found that only 1% of eligible mothers and 5% of eligible fathers took advantage of SPL. Baroness JoJo Penn, who contributed to the policy's introduction, expressed concern that half a million new parents annually lack access to adequate leave.

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Despite the challenges, there are signs of potential progress. Campaigns advocating for better-paid leave for fathers are gaining traction, with support from various equality organizations. Evidence suggests that improved parental leave policies could not only enhance family dynamics but also contribute significantly to the economy, potentially adding £2.6 billion. As the review progresses, stakeholders hope for substantial changes that will address the shortcomings of SPL and promote gender equality in parental responsibilities.

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• “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 and non-birthing parents,” — George Gabriel, Co-founder of Dad Shift

The Guardian

The shared parental leave policy in the UK, while initially promising, has not delivered the anticipated cultural shift in parental responsibilities. As discussions for reform continue, the hope remains that future changes will create a more inclusive and equitable system for all parents.

The Guardian