UK Helpline: 0345 123 2304 | tcf.org.uk 11 “Reasonable time off” for parents whose child died over the age of 18 According to the Employment Rights Act 1996, employees are entitled to a reasonable amount of unpaid time off to handle unforeseen matters involving dependents or immediate family, including attending funerals. If your child was not legally your dependent – for instance, if they were an adult living their own life – they are still “immediate family”. Employers may choose to grant compassionate, bereavement or “special” leave, paid or unpaid, at their own discretion. Some companies may have bereavement leave policies in place. It is advisable to contact your employer as soon as possible, and then to stay in contact with them about any plans to delay your return to work. You can find out more here: • ACAS website: Leave and pay when someone dies - Time off work for bereavement - acas.org.uk Sick leave Some parents find that their mental health is adversely affected by their bereavement to the point that they are unable to return to work within the timeframe that their employer expects. This can be discussed with a GP. The GP may suggest the parent takes sick leave and can provide the necessary report or notes. Visit: • ACAS website: When an employee is off sick - Sick leave - acas.org.uk The self-employed There is nothing equivalent to “Jack’s Law” for the self-employed. If a parent finds they are unable to continue their self-employment, they may want to look into their eligibility for benefits. Visit: • Goverment website: Benefits - gov.uk
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