We, the undersigned, respectfully petition the Government to extend paid maternity leave until a child reaches 18 months of age, and to provide parents with the opportunity to remain at home with their babies for longer during this critical period of development.

The first 18 months of a child’s life are a crucial period for physical growth, emotional security, brain development, and attachment. Extensive research shows that stable, responsive caregiving in early life lays the foundation for lifelong health, learning, and wellbeing. Despite this, many parents are currently required to return to work well before their child even reaches 12 months, often due to financial necessity rather than choice. This can child development & parental mental health.