Private wealth and real estate law firm Boodle Hatfield has introduced an equal parental leave policy for its 180 employees and 39 partners.
It implemented the policy following a review of the benefits offered to employees and partners. It is intended to replace what was previously known as maternity, paternity, shared parental and adoption leave to encourage equality across the firm and is part of a phased rollout of new benefits.
Under the new policy, employees and partners will be able to access 26 weeks’ fully paid leave spread across 39 weeks, regardless of gender. It applies to primary and secondary parents and carers, as well as adoptive parents with 12 months’ service.
The organisation has also introduced support for those undergoing fertility treatment, offering five days paid leave per annum to attend appointments and treatment.
The aim of the policy is to provide employees and partners, irrespective of gender, with greater support when they become parents, more operative provisions as they transition back to work, and to aid the balance between work and family care. It is also part of the firm’s commitment to encourage inclusion, diversity and gender parity within its workplace.
Andrea Zavos, senior partner at Boodle Hatfield, said: “Providing access to flexible parental leave no matter your gender reflects our dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive working environment. We understand the challenges that come with balancing a personal and professional life, particularly when raising a family. We want to support our people to build their careers and fulfil their potential in and out of the workplace. We are pleased to be early adopters of equal opportunity policy changes and to provide a more comprehensive offering to our team and one that clearly aligns with our values.”