Government papers: Parental bereavement leave and pay
The consultation considers options for regulations to fulfil certain provisions contained in the Parental Bereavement (Leave and Pay) Bill, which is currently being considered in Parliament.
The Bill is seeking the introduction of regulations that create a legal requirement for all employers to grant a minimum of two weeks of parental bereavement leave, with pay (if eligible) at the statutory flat rate funded by the government. The aim is to give parents the opportunity to grieve without feeling the pressure of having to be at work at such a challenging time.
The government is keen to ensure the policy is right for those who seek to rely on it and those who have to administer it.
The consultation will focus on:
- the definition of a bereaved parent
- how and when to take the leave
- notice and evidence requirements.
The government is keen to hear from working parents, employers, groups representing working parents and employers, groups involved in bereavement care, and legal, HR and payroll professionals. The consultation closes at 11:45pm on 8 June 2018.
