New policy brings 20-week maternity leave, two-week paternity leave for new parents

STANDARD Chartered Bank (SCB) yesterday announced that its pregnant employees will enjoy a 20-week (five months) maternity leave effective April 2017.

Speaking to the Weekend Bulletin, Laila Li Abdullah, and the Country Head of Human Resources at SCB explained the initiative was made in consideration of employees' welfare and well-being, especially first-time parents adjusting to balancing work and their newborns.

At SC13 we always ask for our employees' feedback. We place them as our main priority, so that they will be able to optimise their work quality and family as well," she said.

They will receive their full salary throughout the 20 weeks, and their annual leave will not be affected.

The new policy also gives two weeks paternity leave to male employees.

The leave also applies to couples who adopt a child, however, valid documents of the adoption must be provided.

"One of the objectives in having this initiative is that we want our employees to have optimum balance in their life, which will later increase productivity in their careers," she added.

The long maternity leave will not impact daily operations. As the pregnancy is a nine month process, it will provide ample time to train colleagues or hire relief workers to substitute them on a temporary basis, she added.

Expecting SCB employees lauded the move, saying the new policy allows them time for post-natal recovery, and to adjust to their new family and work requirements.

Source:
@BRUDIRECT.COM

by BruDirect.com

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