Markel expands UK family leave policy

Markel announced enhancements to its UK family leave policy, increasing paid leave for secondary carers from 12 weeks to 26 weeks to match the leave available to primary carers.

The updated policy applies to eligible UK-based employees regardless of gender and covers situations including birth, adoption, and surrogacy.

According to the company, the enhanced leave policy builds on previous initiatives related to fertility support, baby loss, menopause, domestic abuse, and employee caregiving frameworks. Markel is also introducing additional support measures, including peer support initiatives, manager guidance, and planning tools for employees taking parental leave.

“We also know that secondary carer leave can play an important role in creating a more inclusive and equitable workplace by helping normalise extended leave, and supporting shared caregiving responsibilities.” – Jo Browning, Chief People Officer at Markel.