Parental Leave and Benefit: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Understand your rights regarding unpaid leave for childcare and how it differs from state-paid benefits for children under 12.
This scheme allows parents to take time off work to care for their children. It provides a framework for unpaid leave entitlements to help you manage childcare needs.
Who it's for
This is for employees who have children under the age of 12.
What you get
You are entitled to take unpaid leave from your job to care for your child. While the leave itself does not come with a salary from your employer, there are separate state-funded benefits available to assist with the costs of caring for your child.
What it costs you
There is no direct monetary cost to you to access these leave entitlements. However, it does require time and coordination, as you will need to work with your employer to schedule your time off.
The catch to know
It is important to distinguish between the two parts of this support: the leave itself is unpaid by your employer, but you may be eligible to receive a separate "Parent's Benefit" paid by the state to help cover costs.
How to apply
- Confirm your child is under 12 years old.
- Discuss your intended leave dates with your employer to ensure they can facilitate your absence.
- Check your eligibility for state-paid benefits through the official government department.