Family Leave - Children and Dependants

The University recognises that there may be occasions when the sickness or injury of a family member means that you are unable to attend work.

We will allow reasonable time off to take necessary action to deal with the situation. Time off is normally limited up to three days without loss of pay and may be granted at the discretion of Heads of Departments/Deans. Subsequent days, paid or unpaid, may be granted, depending on the circumstances. You should advise your Head of Department the reason for your absence and the possible duration. You should contact your Head of Department on a daily basis if the absence extends beyond one day in order that cover arrangements can be made.

Family Leave is provided where:

a dependant falls ill or is injured
childcare or other care arrangements break down
a dependant has died (see Compassionate Leave - Bereavement)

The definition of a dependant is a spouse, partner, child or parent, or a person living as a family member in the same household. In the case of illness, injury or breakdown of care arrangements, a dependant can also include someone who relies on you for assistance, but may not live with you.

Heads of Departments/Deans are encouraged to allow flexible working arrangements to enable staff to attend a hospital appointment with a child or dependant. In these circumstances you should show the hospital appointment card to your Head of Department/Dean, indicate the length of time you expect to be absent from work and make arrangements for making up the time.