Adoptive parents to get equal rights

Parents of adopted children will get similar rights to other
working parents under a new deal announced today by the trade and industry
secretary.

Working parents who adopt a child will be able to take six
months’ paid leave and six months unpaid leave from 2003.

Adoptive parents will be able to choose which of them takes
the time off work and receives the payment.

Paid adoption leave will be available for children adopted
up to the age of 18.

Stephen Byers said, “Currently parents who adopt are not
entitled to any paid leave, yet it is recommended that one parent stays at home
for the first few months of the placement to help make it a success. These new
rights will help keep adoptive parents in the workplace who might otherwise be forced
to leave.”

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By Mike Broad