John Lewis Partnership to offer all staff six months paid parental leave
The John Lewis Partnership is to become the first UK retailer to offer all staff six months worth of paid parental leave.
It will also offer two weeks’ paid leave to any staff member who experiences the loss of a pregnancy.
The owner of the John Lewis department stores and Waitrose supermarkets said the commitment forms part of its partnership plan, which will also include a pilot programme to provide career help for young people leaving the care system.
Beginning this month in partnership with Essex County Council, the programme will help young people aged 18 to 24 identify job opportunities with the retailer and provide support such as coaching, mentoring and interview practice. In addition, successful candidates will receive ongoing coaching and mentoring once in post.
Sharon White, chairman of the John Lewis Partnership, said: “We want John Lewis and Waitrose to be a place for everyone and for people from all walks of life to feel valued so they can thrive in our business. We want to be there for our partners to support them in important life moments, whether that’s stepping into the world of work for the first time, or becoming a parent.”
