The Laws on Dependency Leave for Parents

What is Dependency Leave?

There may be times when you, as an employee, may have to take additional time off from work after holiday entitlement and your own sick leave with a view to caring for a sick relative; this is what is referred to as dependency leave.

Dependency leave is actually paid time off with permission from your employer so that you can tend or help to tend for a relative or child who is sick and unable to look after themselves.

What Constitutes a Need for Dependency Leave?

If you have a child and they are required to visit a dentist or doctor during the course of the working day and there is no one else available to take them that it is reasonable to assume that you may require time off to take them yourself. This would be one instance of Dependency Leave and it is something that most employers expect to happen now and again if their employees have children of their own.

An employer may reasonably expect that in any twelve month period you may have to take off three days or afternoons (depending on their own guidelines) for just such an emergency and often try to comply – it may result in time being owed but rarely results in the loss of pay unless the employer has previously agreed this with the employee in question.

How Do I Apply for Dependency Leave?

It is of course taken as read that it is not possible in all instances to give notice but where possible you should give as much notice as you can. For example if you know of an impending hospital or doctor’s visit that requires your presence then you should give your supervisor or manager as much notice as you can in advance.

In most cases many employees will simply take a day or afternoon off to facilitate such a request but if the circumstances are of a sudden nature then your employer should accommodate if they can.

Who Qualifies as a Dependent?

Anyone who lives in your household or is under care is regarded as a dependant. Again it is wise – where possible – to inform your employer of any circumstances at home which may require the need for Dependency Leave at short notice. Your employer will – in accordance with the law and their own guidelines – try to be as understanding as they can but it is important to remember that Dependency Leave is rationed and is not simply there for using when it feels right.

I Can’t Make It to Work, I Have a Dependant Who Is Sick – What Should I Do?

In accordance with the individual guidelines of every company or business there will be a set of rules laid down as to how to proceed in the case of an emergency or unavoidable absence. Most companies operate a policy of calling in before the beginning of your shift to inform the supervisor or manager as to their inability to attend.

Where possible you should speak to your line manager or supervisor rather than leave a message with another member of staff and likewise you should try and give an indication as to whether or not you will be returning to work the following day.

For further information on your company’s policies on Dependency Leave you should consult your employee handbook or speak to your employer.