New study reveals which UK companies offer the best parental leave

Why parental leave policies matter

For many prospective parents, accessing information about parental leave policies has long been a challenge. Historically, these policies have been shrouded in secrecy, often leaving employees in the dark about their entitlements.

Katie Guild, co-founder of Nugget Savings, explains the significance of this transparency:

We want parents who are expecting to have full peace of mind knowing money won’t be a worry. This list was created to champion the companies that are doing just that.

By crowdsourcing data from over 200,000 parents-to-be, Nugget Savings aims to level the playing field and ensure that parents are aware of their rights.

The top UK companies for parental leave

The companies on this list are leading the charge when it comes to parental benefits, offering packages that go above and beyond the statutory requirements. Here are some of the standouts:

1. Knight Frank: The real estate giant provides 26 weeks of full pay for both mothers and fathers, with up to 52 weeks of total leave.
2. Baillie Gifford: Employees at this Edinburgh-based investment firm can access 26 weeks of 100% pay and an additional 13 weeks at 50%.
3. Zoopla: This property platform offers a year off for mums, with 6 months on full pay, 3 months on half pay, and 3 months unpaid. Dads benefit from 8 weeks at full pay and 4 weeks at half pay.
4. J.P. Morgan Chase: From day one, employees receive 6 months of full-pay maternity leave, 3 months statutory, and £15,000 for IVF treatments.
5. Ticketmaster: A standout for gender-equal parenting, Ticketmaster offers 26 weeks of full-pay shared parental leave, plus up to £19,000 for fertility treatments.
   more than just leave: the extras that make a difference

These companies don’t stop at providing enhanced parental leave. Many go further with policies that support parents through fertility struggles, baby loss, or the challenges of balancing work and family life.

• Lloyds Banking Group: Supports parents through IVF with time off for appointments and flexible working arrangements. They also provide miscarriage leave and hybrid working options.
• Phoenix Group: Offers 26 weeks of full pay and £15,000 towards BUPA fertility treatments.
• University of Liverpool: A leader in inclusivity, they provide fostering leave and fertility treatment support for both partners, recognising the diverse needs of modern families.

As Harriet Morton-Liddle, co-founder of Nugget Savings, points out: "It can feel like there is a never-ending stream of bad news for working parents. This list demonstrates the positive change afoot in the working world for parents."

Why this matters now

In a climate where birth rates are falling and the cost of living is rising, these policies are more crucial than ever. Flexible working, fertility support, and enhanced parental leave packages are becoming key priorities for families. Companies offering these benefits are not only supporting their employees but are also setting an example for others to follow.

Whether you're planning a family or already navigating parenthood, these companies are proof that there’s hope for a brighter, more supportive working future.

If you're searching for a workplace that values parenthood as much as you do, this list is a great place to start. With companies offering generous benefits and a commitment to work-life balance, it’s a step towards a more inclusive and family-friendly work culture.

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