Parents unaware of unpaid leave entitlement

Almost half of parents do not know how many weeks they are entitled to take in unpaid parental leave, with many worrying their career could be hit if they take time off, a study shows.

A survey of 1,500 parents found three out of four had never taken unpaid leave, even though they can take up to four weeks after being with the same employer for a year.

Crossland Employment Solicitors said its research showed there was a “significant” lack of awareness about unpaid leave.

Managing director Beverley Sunderland said: “Employers need to be open and transparent with workers about their unpaid leave entitlements aswellascreatingaculture that encourages employees to take leave rather than it being perceived as something that could damage their career.”