Source · Select Committees · Petitions Committee
First Report: The impact of Covid-19 on maternity and parental leave
Petitions Committee
HC 526
Published 6 July 2020
Recommendations
5
Accepted
Para 27
For those new parents on maternity leave for whom furlough was already possible, the Government...
Recommendation
For those new parents on maternity leave for whom furlough was already possible, the Government failed to make it clear either to them or their employers that it was an option. The Government should publish clear new guidance for employees …
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Government Response Summary
The government agrees with the need for clear information, but states that GOV.UK already contains a wealth of rigorously user-tested guidance, including specific pages on maternity leave and the CJRS, and ruled out a single 'one-stop shop'.
11
Accepted
Para 56
While baby classes may not be directly vital to baby development, they provide important support...
Recommendation
While baby classes may not be directly vital to baby development, they provide important support to new parents, which will benefit the care they can provide. From our discussions with the sector and with the Minister, there has not been …
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Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the important role of parent and baby groups and commits to hosting a meeting with the sector to better understand how they can be supported.
14
Accepted
Para 72
Covid-19 has had a significant impact on the mental health of the whole nation.
Recommendation
Covid-19 has had a significant impact on the mental health of the whole nation. New and expectant parents have especially been put under tremendous strain during what is already an incredibly challenging time in their lives. It is extremely likely …
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Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the issue and highlights existing guidance, open services, and ongoing commitments to expand perinatal mental health services by 2023/24, without committing to additional targeted support specifically for new parents affected by COVID-19.