Complete JPA form R001 which can be found at JPA forms (on defnet) and submit it to your line manager for their agreement, where possible at least 21 days before the leave is required.
Parental Leave
Allows 18 weeks of unpaid leave for each parent of each child and adopted child, up to the child’s 18th birthday.
Eligibility check:
What’s it for?
Parental Leave gives Service personnel more time to look after the welfare of their children. It can be used to spend more time with a child, settle them into new childcare arrangements, visit potential new schools, or to accompany a child during a hospital stay.
What do I get?
Parental Leave allows 18 weeks of unpaid leave for each parent of each child and adopted child, up to the child’s 18th birthday. The annual limit on Parental Leave is four weeks for each child.
The period of Parental Leave entitlement for a Reservist serving on Additional Duties Commitment is based on one week’s Parental Leave being equal to the length of time that the reservist is normally required to work in a week.
How do I claim?
1
Submit application to line manager
2
Forward form to Unit HR
Once approved, forward the form to your Unit HR. On the first time you apply for Parental Leave, you should also attach evidence of Parental Responsibility - providing either a birth certificate or adoption certificate.
Page last updated: 12 February 2025
Need more information?
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Read JSP 760, Chapter 28, for more information about Parental Leave.
Read JSP 760 chapter 28 for more information about Parental leave
defnet access only
Royal Navy - Maternity and Parenthood Handbook
A guide to support Service Personnel and Managers during pregnancy, maternity, paternity, assisted conception, adoption, pregnancy loss and childcare support in the Royal Navy.
defnet access only
RAF - Support for Serving Parents
A hub of information and guidance to help you and your line manager navigate parenthood policies and processes, and access available support.
defnet access only
Army - Pregnancy/Maternity and Return to Work
A guide to support Service Personnel and the Chain of Command during pregnancy, including pregnancy loss, maternity, breastfeeding and returning to work within the British Army.