Fathers Demand Modernized Paternity Leave to Boost Family Involvement

As of November 2025, campaigners are urging the UK government to "modernize" paternity leave policies to help fathers be more present in family life. The group called "The Dad Shift" is advocating for "affordable and equal leave for both parents in every relationship."

Co-founder Alex Lloyd Hunter explains that most fathers are unaware they can share parental leave, with less than 5% (10,600) of UK fathers choosing this option since it was introduced in 2014. The government acknowledges the current system needs improvement and is conducting a comprehensive review to "make sure it truly works for modern families."

One of the campaign's supporters, Ian Sperring from Bath, did choose to share parental leave with his wife. He said, "It started with the very first moment my kids were born, wanting to be there for as long as possible to support them and support my wife." However, other fathers have reported feeling "forced back to work when their babies were barely a week old, missing precious early moments."

The group believes that by making it easier for families to share responsibilities more equally at home, it will also enable mothers to succeed in the workforce. They welcome the government's ongoing review, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.