How to Calculate Your Paternity Leave Dates
Last updated 12 November 2026 · Paternity Leave Calculator editorial team
Calculating paternity leave dates is simple once you know three things: when your leave starts, how long it is, and whether it is counted in calendar days or working days.
Step 1: Choose your start date
Many fathers start leave on the day the baby is born. Because babies rarely arrive exactly on the due date, plans should stay flexible. Some schemes let you choose a later start within a set window.
Step 2: Know how your leave is counted
Calendar days count every day, including weekends. 14 calendar days starting on Wednesday 10 March 2027 ends on Tuesday 23 March 2027.
Working days count only the days you normally work. Ten working days for a Monday–Friday worker starting Monday 1 March 2027 ends on Friday 12 March 2027.
Step 3: Add employer leave
If your employer gives extra leave, add it after your statutory leave unless your policy says otherwise.
Step 4: Find your return date
Your return-to-work date is the first working day after your last day of leave. If leave ends on a Friday and you work Monday–Friday, you return on Monday.
Work out your own dates
Use our free calculator to estimate your leave start, end and return date.
Open the calculatorThis guide summarises official sources for general information and is not legal advice. Rules change — confirm your entitlement with your employer or the relevant authority.