BCNF Commends Budget Measures Advancing Parental Leave, Child Welfare, and Nutrition

The Barbados Breastfeeding & Child Nutrition Foundation (BCNF) welcomes key measures in the 2025 Budget Summary that strengthen support for parents, enhance child welfare, and promote access to nutritious food.

Addressing the national adjustments, Executive Director of the BCNF, Dr. Alison Bernard, said, “These policy advancements reflect a commitment to improving the well-being of families in Barbados and align with international standards for maternity and parental protections, including those outlined by the International Labour Organization (ILO).”

She highlighted that one of the most significant changes is the extension of maternity leave from 12 to 14 weeks for single births and 17 weeks for multiple births, effective June 1, 2025.

Dr. Alison Bernard

“BCNF recognizes this as a positive step toward the ILO’s recommendation of at least 18 weeks of maternity leave, which allows mothers additional time to recover from childbirth, establish breastfeeding, and bond with their infants. Additionally, the introduction of three weeks of statutory paternity leave acknowledges the essential role of fathers in early child care and supports greater gender equity in parental responsibilities. The removal of restrictions requiring that a child be born in Barbados to access these benefits is also an important step toward inclusivity,” Dr. Bernard said.

The BCNF also acknowledges the introduction of a special needs grant for minors who are blind, deaf, or mute, with retroactive coverage from October 1, 2025, and its subsequent expansion in June 2025 to include children with other disabilities. Providing financial assistance to families of children with special needs is an important measure that aligns with BCNF’s advocacy for equitable access to health and nutrition support for all children.

The increase in the foster parent stipend to $200 per week per child, effective April 1, 2025, will provide much-needed financial support to caregivers, ensuring that foster children receive the care and resources they need to thrive. This move is in line with broader efforts to prioritize child welfare and provide stability for vulnerable children.

Additionally, the allocation of $1 million annually for Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) education presents an opportunity for BCNF to collaborate with the government on initiatives to raise awareness about childhood obesity, the importance of early nutrition, and breastfeeding’s role in preventing NCDs. Given the long-term health impact of early dietary habits, BCNF is eager to support efforts that promote public awareness and education.

The government’s decision to remove VAT on a range of essential food items, including beef, pineapples, and lentil peas, will make nutritious foods more affordable and accessible to families, particularly those with young children. BCNF views this as a positive step in ensuring families have the means to provide balanced, nutrient-rich meals.

Furthermore, BCNF welcomes the introduction of a 20% excise tax on snacks with high salt content, a measure aimed at promoting healthier food choices and reducing the risk of diet-related health issues. Given the rising concerns around childhood obesity and hypertension, this policy aligns with recommendations from local health advocacy groups such as the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Barbados and the Barbados Childhood Obesity Prevention Coalition.

BCNF supports initiatives that encourage healthier eating habits from an early age and looks forward to further dialogue on public health strategies.

Marketing and Communications Manager at the BCNF, Alex Holder, said the Foundation “remains committed to advocating for policies that support families and child health in Barbados.”

He added, “As international standards continue to evolve, the Foundation encourages ongoing discussions about enhancing maternity and parental leave protections, including further alignment with ILO recommendations regarding maternity leave duration, workplace accommodations for pregnant and nursing mothers, and broader employment protections for parents.”

BCNF looks forward to engaging with the government and other stakeholders to build on these positive developments and ensure the continued prioritization of family health and child nutrition in Barbados.