Parental and bereavement leave changes announced

The updated rights for parents come into force from 1 November

New parents will be able to share up to 50 weeks' leave from 1 November, the Manx government has announced.

The change is included within reforms of employment laws on the island.

Manx residents will also be entitled to take an additional two weeks of leave following the death of a child under 18 or after a stillbirth.

Enterprise Minister Tim Johnston said the changes represented a "significant step forward in supporting families during some of the most important and difficult times that they may face".

'More flexible approach'

Under the new system, bereavement leave can either be taken in one block or split into two separate weeks. It will have to be taken within a year of the child's death.

The government also said one week of leave would be available to prospective parents after a miscarriage.

In the case of shared parental leave, the 50 weeks must be taken before their child's first birthday.

Similar provisions are also being made for people adopting a child.

Johnston said the "much-needed rights" would provide "a more flexible approach" for new families, and additional support at a "challenging time" for those who suffer a bereavement.

'Critical periods'

The amended leave provisions will be accompanied by new allowances, which are due to be brought before Tynwald later this year.

Treasury Minister Alex Allinson said the payments would ensure parents were "financially supported during these critical periods".

"We recognise the importance of providing financial support to parents who need to take time off work to care for their new child in a flexible way that suits them," he added.

Other changes in the Employment (Amendment) Act 2024 already implemented included strengthening the rights of families and whistleblowers.

Work to update laws covering neonatal care leave and carer's leave continues.