A renowned ophthalmologist and new dad at a leading veterinary eye hospital in Sunderland is shining a light on enhanced equal family leave and how it has benefited him and his partner who is also an associate at Linnaeus.

Michael McCallum has recently returned to Veterinary Vision’s Sunderland clinic after enjoying six months paternity leave which has greatly helped him bond with his first child.

The industry-leading package for Linnaeus associates who are starting or growing their family allows them to take up to 52 weeks of parental leave.

The policy has also made a real difference to Michael’s partner Diane Leach, who works at nearby fellow Linnaeus hospital Wear Referrals in County Durham, as it has allowed both of them to spend a lengthy time together with their newborn child.

Michael, who joined Veterinary Vision in 2020, said: “The Linnaeus equal family leave policy has made a real difference to me and my partner as it has allowed us to spend quality time with our daughter.

“As far as I’m aware, such a lengthy and generous package is unique, so we’re incredibly lucky to have such supportive employers in Veterinary Vision, Wear Referrals and Linnaeus.

“We appreciate we are in a fortunate position and, while this might not be available to those outside Linnaeus, my advice for all new parents would be to take off as much time as you can afford, as this is time you cannot get back later.”

Veterinary Vision’s clinical director Chris Dixon added: “Veterinary Vision takes a keen interest in the welfare of all its team members, so it’s wonderful that associates such as Michael have the opportunity to take advantage of a comprehensive support package to enjoy with his family.”

Saskia Connell, people and organisation director at Linnaeus, said: “Starting or expanding your family is a huge step in anyone’s life and this policy is designed to help our associates on this journey.

“At Linnaeus, we believe all parents are equally important to their child and to us as an employer.”

Veterinary Vision has a team of 15 ophthalmologists offering a dedicated referral service for cases from across the UK. It has state-of-the-art clinics in Lancashire, Penrith, Sunderland and Glasgow. For more information, visit https://www.veterinaryvision.co.uk/.

​