adoption leave
Lewisham Council is overhauling its parental leave policy, aiming to introduce six weeks' fully paid adoption leave.
Lewisham Council agreed in September 2026 to overhaul its parental leave policy, aiming to introduce a minimum of six weeks' fully paid paternity or adoption leave for eligible parents. This significant change, based on a motion proposed by Councillor Andre Bourne and seconded by Councillor Oana Olaru-Holmes, commits to championing the council as a family-friendly employer.
The motion was amended to ensure inclusivity for diverse family structures and to foster engagement with trade unions, as the council reviews its current provisions for leave granted to individuals adopting a child. There are no upcoming meetings scheduled to discuss this topic.
Key facts
- Lewisham Council agreed to overhaul its parental leave policy in September 2026. Source
- The overhaul aims to introduce a minimum of six weeks' fully paid paternity or adoption leave. Source
- The decision was made at a Council meeting on 23 September 2026. Source
- Councillor Andre Bourne proposed the motion, seconded by Councillor Oana Olaru-Holmes. Source
- The amended motion commits to championing Lewisham Council as a family-friendly employer. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.