Amendment No. 11 (the “Amendment”) to the Employment (Jersey) Law 2003 (the “Law”) places new responsibilities for employers to implement such as gender-neutral parental leave, breastfeeding breaks, longer paid leave for all parents and extending rights to adoptive and surrogate parents to reflect the evolving nature of family units.

Local law firm Bedell Cristin has advised that employers must be compliant with the changes from the date of introduction, so should act now. This will entail businesses reviewing employment contracts, handbooks and policies in order to ensure they comply with the law and make any amends if necessary.

Bedell Cristin’s employment team has already advised local employers, including one of the largest Channel Islands businesses, on the changes and what they can do to support expectant employees.

Jersey office managing partner David Cadin commented: “This legislation is vital in bringing Jersey’s parental rights to modern day standards and reinforce the island’s standing in being a safe and supportive place to raise a family.

“I would encourage all employers to review their current policies, make any changes and effectively communicate any policy updates with their staff in order to be aligned with the legislation when it comes into effect in summer.”