In recent Paternity Leave news, Deloitte boldly offered men the same parental leave as women. This decision is a step in the right direction, showing that caring for children is a shared responsibility between parents.

Breaking the Tradition: Maternity vs. Paternity Leave

For too long, maternity leave has been seen as something only women need. Many people still believe it’s the mother’s role to take time off work to care for a newborn. While the father is expected to return to work within days or weeks. In Scotland, most fathers are still only entitled to two weeks of paternity leave. This hardly gives them time to bond with their baby, let alone support their partners as they adjust to life as new parents.

If we’re serious about gender equality, we can’t ignore the importance of giving men equal time at home. It’s not just about fairness—it’s about ensuring that both parents are there for the emotional and physical care of their child. Studies show that when dads are involved early on, children have better outcomes. Kids become healthier, happier, and more confident as they grow up.

 Scotland vs. The Rest of the World

Around 80% of working-age men in Scotland are employed, yet only 1 in 3 fathers take more than two weeks off after their children are born. That’s nowhere near enough time! Compare this to countries like Sweden, where both parents can share up to 16 months of paid leave. Imagine the impact this could have on families in Scotland if we adopted a similar approach. It wouldn’t just ease the pressure on mothers, but it would help fathers fully step into their role as equal parents from the start.

The Benefits of Equal Parental Leave

Providing equal parental leave isn’t just about helping dads spend more time at home—it’s about supporting families as a whole. It gives both parents the chance to bond with their baby, reduces the mental load on mothers, and promotes more balanced relationships. It could also help break down gender stereotypes, encouraging workplaces to be more flexible and inclusive for both men and women.

A Call for Change for Paternity Leave in Scotland

Equal parental leave could be a game changer for gender equality and family wellbeing across the country. It shouldn’t be a luxury for men to take time off to care for their children. It should be a right and a necessity.

By making this change, we’d be building a stronger future for our families, our children, and our society as a whole.

If this is an important work benefit for you then it might be time to find a job that does – search now.