Father welcomes new parental leave rights for bereaved in Great Britain

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by Alexandra Topping Political correspondentJanuary 12, 2026 at 06:00 AM

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A new law in Great Britain, spurred by Aaron Horsey's experience of being denied paternity leave after his wife died during childbirth, will grant bereaved parents up to 52 weeks of leave. Horsey, who was ineligible for leave due to his length of employment, advocated for the change to prevent other parents from facing similar hardship. The Paternity Leave (Bereavement) Act, amending the Employment Rights Act 1996, received cross-party support and originated from discussions between Horsey and his MP. Additional measures under Labour's employment rights bill, granting day-one rights to paternity and paid parental leave, will also be presented to parliament and are expected to take effect in April. The new legislation aims to provide crucial support to grieving parents during an incredibly difficult time.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Guardian 30% Broxtowe 30% Nottinghamshire 30% Chris Elmore 40% Royal Derby Hospital 40% House of Lords 40% Conservative Party 40% Darren Henry 50% Parliament ×250% Labour Party ×260% Bernadette Horsey 60% Aaron Horsey ×690%

Keywords

parental leave 100% bereaved parents 90% paternity leave 80% employment rights 70% childbirth death 60% legislation 50% government concessions 40% employment rights act 40%