We know that family life doesn’t pause when you’re at work and we don’t think it should have to. That’s why we’re proud to be introducing our new Family Friendly Policy, to support our colleagues and their loved ones through some of life’s biggest moments.
We’ve listened to what our colleagues told us and made our family policies simpler, fairer, and more generous. Because when life changes, it’s important people feel supported, not stressed.
From 6th April 2026, we’ll be making big improvements to our core family leave. Maternity and adoption leave will increase to 26 weeks on full pay, and paternity leave will increase to 6 weeks on full pay. These benefits will be available to anyone who’s been with us for at least a year by the expected week of childbirth.
So that those who are expecting the imminent arrival of a new family member don’t miss out, we’re introducing some short-term improvements ahead of the full rollout. Between 1st November 2025 and 5th April 2026, maternity leave will include 15 weeks on full pay and 14 weeks on half pay, while paternity leave will increase from 2 weeks to 4 weeks on full pay. These benefits will also apply to colleagues with a year’s service by the expected week of childbirth.
Mike’s about to become a dad and will benefit from the interim increase in paternity leave and said:
“These changes mean a great deal to me personally. With my first child on the way, having the flexibility and support to share those early moments with my family means so much, and I’m grateful to work somewhere that recognises the importance of that”
We also know family looks different for everyone. Pets are part of the family too, so, whether a colleague is caring for an unwell animal or saying goodbye to one, they’ll be able to take up to one day as part of their exceptional leave entitlement each year to help manage those moments.
Sarah Hutchinson, Director of People and Culture at Yorkshire Housing, added:
“We know that family life doesn’t stop when you’re at work. These changes are about giving colleagues the time, flexibility, and support they need to look after what matters most, their families, however they’re defined. By listening to feedback and shaping a policy that fits real lives, we’re building a culture of care and belonging that we can all be proud of.”