You’re invited to our festive, in-person, networking and discussion around the impact of The Neonatal Care Bill for both employers and employees.
We will be joined on 11th December by expert speakers:
- Dr Krystal Wilkinson, Reader (Associate Professor) in Human Resource Management at Manchester Metropolitan University
- Claire Treacy, Associate in Employment at Kuits Solicitors
Date: Monday 11th December 2023
Time: 12.30pm – 2.00pm
Venue: Bonded Warehouse, Manchester M3 4AP
This event is free, with optional donations to support Spoons welcome on the day. Tea, coffee and mince pies will be provided.
>> Register for your free place here <<
Who should attend?
This event is for both employers and employees with an interest in the Neonatal Care (Leave and Pay) Act. This will be an informal networking event, with an opportunity to hear from experts in the subject, as well as from parents with experience of neonatal care, including Kirsten Mitchell (Founder of Spoons) and Rebecca Lowe (Trustee of Spoons), who will offer insight into the work of Spoons charity.
Background to the Bill:
The Neonatal Care (Leave and Pay) Act has been welcomed by parents, and soon-to-be parents, across the UK, particularly those who have been forced to lose much of their maternity and paternity leave in the neonatal unit. The Bill reached Royal Assent on 24 May meaning it is now law.
The Neonatal Care (Leave and Pay) Bill aims to provide additional leave and pay for employees with responsibility for children receiving neonatal care. For parents who meet the qualifying criteria, it will offer up to 12 weeks of extra leave and pay. This provides vital time with their babies if they are born premature or sick without the worry of returning to work.
It is yet to be made clear when the Act is to come into force, but it is likely to be around April 2025. However, employers are starting to plan now for the implications of this new legislation.
More about our guest speakers:
Dr Krystal Wilkinson
Dr Krystal Wilkinson is Reader (Associate Professor) in Human Resource Management, based at the Centre for Decent Work and Productivity at Manchester Metropolitan University. Her research focuses on the work-life interface, women’s health and wellbeing at work. Current research has included projects on reproductive and maternity journeys and the workplace, including complications such as fertility challenges, pregnancy loss and mental illness. She has published in leading academic journals and is co-editor of the forthcoming Emerald Publishing book: ‘Work-Life Inclusion: Broadening perspectives across the life-course’. Krystal is passionate about knowledge exchange and is working with various stakeholders to raise awareness and create resources on wellbeing at work, including the professional body the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), national charities (such as PANDAS Foundation, Tommy’s and Bliss) and employers. Her research has also been featured in the media and trade press including the Wall Street Journal, the BBC and People Management magazine. Prior to studying for her PhD at Leeds University, Krystal held operational Human Resource Management roles in different industries, including construction, retail and hospitality.
Claire Treacy
Claire is an associate in the employment team at Kuits Solicitors and is a Legal 500 recommended lawyer. Claire advises on all aspects of employment law. Claire has experience advising both employees and employers during the Employment Tribunal procedure. Claire also has experience in non-contentious matters, advising clients on the implications of TUPE, grievance and disciplinary procedures. Claire also advises on employment policies and procedures and provides training sessions to clients on equality and diversity in the workplace.