Barclays Boosts Paternity Leave to 16 Weeks in UK and Expands Caregiver Support Across Asia Pacific

Barclays Boosts Paternity Leave to 16 Weeks in UK and Expands Caregiver Support Across Asia Pacific

(IN BRIEF) Barclays is implementing a substantial upgrade to its family leave policies, extending UK paternity leave from 2 to 16 weeks and increasing non-primary caregiver leave in Asia Pacific from 6 to 10 weeks starting January 2026. This move is part of a wider strategy to improve inclusivity, retain top talent, and offer practical support to employees during key life events. Applicable to fathers, partners (including same-sex and adoptive parents), and surrogacy arrangements, the updated policy reinforces Barclays’ dedication to family-friendly workplace standards. According to Group HR Director Tristram Roberts, the enhancement reflects a major investment in people and a commitment to creating a supportive culture that values both work and personal life.

(PRESS RELEASE) RIYADH, 18-Nov-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Barclays has announced a major improvement to its family leave policies in the UK and Asia Pacific, demonstrating the bank’s ongoing commitment to providing a supportive and inclusive working environment. Effective 1 January 2026, paternity leave in the UK will be extended from 2 weeks to 16 weeks. In Asia Pacific — encompassing Australia, Japan, Greater China, Singapore, and India — leave for non-primary caregivers will increase from 6 weeks to 10 weeks.

This landmark enhancement underscores Barclays’ investment in its people, offering new parents more time to build bonds with their children and manage life transitions, while supporting a more equitable and family-friendly workplace. The expanded leave can be taken by fathers, adoptive parents, spouses or partners of birth parents (including same-sex partners), and intended parents in surrogacy arrangements — ensuring broad inclusivity.

Tristram Roberts, Barclays’ Group HR Director, highlighted the strategic and personal significance of this move:
“This is a major investment in our people and demonstrates Barclays’ commitment to attracting and retaining the best talent, while continuing to build an inclusive environment. Ultimately, it’s about supporting families.”

This policy update complements Barclays’ existing suite of employee benefits designed to support work-life balance, career development, and well-being. More details about the bank’s comprehensive benefits can be found on its dedicated careers site.

Media Contact:

Tel: 0345 7345345
Email: ukpressoffice@barclays.com

SOURCE: Barclays