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Fathers taking leave: evaluating the impact of shared parental leave in the United Kingdom

Author

Listed:
  • Joanna Clifton‐Sprigg
  • Eleonora Fichera
  • Ezgi Kaya
  • Melanie Jones

Abstract

We study the effect of the introduction of the UK Shared Parental Leave policy in 2015 on both the uptake and the length of leave taken by fathers. Using data from the UK Household Longitudinal Study and a regression discontinuity in time design, we find no evidence that the reform increased either uptake or length of paternal leave, reinforcing questions about its effectiveness.

Suggested Citation

  • Joanna Clifton‐Sprigg & Eleonora Fichera & Ezgi Kaya & Melanie Jones, 2025. "Fathers taking leave: evaluating the impact of shared parental leave in the United Kingdom," Fiscal Studies, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 46(3), pages 399-410, September.
  • Handle: RePEc:wly:fistud:v:46:y:2025:i:3:p:399-410
    DOI: 10.1111/1475-5890.70000
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    References listed on IDEAS

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