apetito makes a real difference with new maternity leave policy

Trowbridge-based food service provider, apetito, has once again demonstrated its commitment to improving working conditions for its employees by introducing a brand-new maternity/adoption and shared parental leave policy. 

The new policy now states that those who commence maternity/adoption or shared parental leave will receive six months full pay inclusive of statutory pay, followed by 13 weeks statutory pay. This will then be followed by 13 weeks unpaid leave taking them to 12 months leave. 

Paternity leave will also increase from two weeks to four weeks paid leave. The changes will come into effect from 1st April.

Sharon Larkin, Human Resources Director of apetito, said, “I am very pleased to confirm our new Parent policy and look forward to seeing the benefits this will have for our employees. At apetito we strive to make a real difference, and this will greatly improve the quality of life for so many.” 

Gayle Williams, Diversity and Inclusion Manager at apetito supports the Working Families and Carers Staff Network at the company, and was instrumental in having these changes implemented.

She said, “This is a tremendous policy change for apetito as our Board understood the challenges often faced by new parents and sought to alleviate financial burden by introducing these new measures.” 

An increase from 14 weeks pay at 90% salary, followed by 25 weeks statutory pay and 13 weeks unpaid leave, means the world to soon to be first-time parent, Holly Withers, Commercial Business Partner with the company. 

Delighted that she and her partner will benefit from the new policy, Holly commented, “I couldn’t be happier with the changes. It means that we will spend less time thinking about our finances and more time enjoying being with our little one during such a precious stage in our lives.” 

Pictured above: Image courtesy of Getty Images