Care and support

Statutory paternity pay

Statutory paternity pay (SPP) can be paid to a member of both heterosexual and same-sex couples for a child born to a spouse /partner (SPP – birth) or for a child who is adopted (SPP - adoption). SPP is paid for a maximum of two consecutive weeks at a flat rate of £117.18 per week (or 90% of average weekly earnings if this is less)

How do I qualify for SPP?

To qualify for SPP, your partner/spouse will need to have worked for their employer continuously for 26 weeks by the 15th week before the baby is due (birth) or continuously for 26 weeks by the week in which you are notified that you have been matched with a child for adoption. They must earn on average more than £90.00 per week and must also give their employer written notice at least 28 days before they want the SPP to start.

NB: Both parents have a right to take up to 13 weeks unpaid parental leave per child. (see later section for the rules).