Paternity Leave - When does it start?

[Twittwooo]

I've read that paternity leave cannot legally begin before the baby is born, however I am unsure how it works. My husband will come home from work when I am in labour and will come to hospital with me when the time comes (like most couples), but I am aware that it could be a while before the baby actually arrives. If he is off work for, say, a day before the baby is born, what is this leave classed as? Any help would be great!

There is guidance on paternity leave on the DirectGov website.

I would guess if your DH is in hospital with you or a day or two before baby arrives that he would have to take this as either holiday or unpaid leave. It may be worthwhile your husband talking to his HR department and finding out what their policy on this is.

Thanks for replying. I have looked on the DirectGov website but can't seem to find a clear answer and I'm not sure my husband's work are that clear on how it works either! I'd be interested to know how this situation has worked out for other people.

Hi, my DH was allowed to take compassionate leave when I had DD (it was a bit of a different situation as she arrived at 26 weeks) and he could take his paternity leave anytime within 56 days of her EDD. He wasn't allowed to take paternity leave before the birth.

I'm not sure if this was policy but afaik this is how it works everywhere.