Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council is proud to announce the launch of a new Neonatal Leave Policy, introduced during Carers Week (9th to 16th June 2025), reinforcing its commitment to supporting employees with caring responsibilities.
This policy provides additional paid leave to employees whose babies require specialist neonatal care within the first 28 days of life. Foster carers will also be eligible for this vital support - a first for local government in Northern Ireland.
Cllr Brian Higginson, Chair of the Corporate Services Committee, welcomed the policy, saying: "We know that the first few weeks of a baby's life can be unexpectedly challenging—especially when specialist neonatal care is required. This policy is a reflection of our values as an organisation: compassionate, responsive, and committed to the wellbeing of our staff.”
The council’s new policy is a timely addition to its family-friendly framework, acknowledging the emotional, physical, and logistical challenges faced by parents and carers navigating neonatal care. It ensures staff can focus on what matters most without the added pressure of work commitments during a critical time.
Alderman Sharon Skillen, who recently became a mother, added:
"Having experienced neonatal care first-hand, I know how vital it is to have time, space and support during those early days. This policy gives parents the reassurance that their employer stands beside them, offering real help when it's needed most. It’s a meaningful step that will make a real difference to many families across our workforce."
Cllr John Laverty BEM, a foster carer himself, welcomed the inclusive approach: "As a foster carer, I’m especially pleased to see this policy recognise the reality we face from the moment a child enters our care. Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has set a strong example in acknowledging that every carer deserves support, regardless of how they come to parenthood. This change will mean a great deal to fostering families across our organisation."