Compassionate Leave
Compassionate leave is time off work granted to employees dealing with serious personal circumstances such as bereavement, a family emergency, or caring for a dependent.
leave-types
Category
beginner
Difficulty
4 min read
Read time
2025-01-15
Updated
Definition
Short definition
Compassionate leave is time off work granted to employees dealing with serious personal circumstances such as bereavement, a family emergency, or caring for a dependent.
Detailed explanation
Compassionate leave allows employees to take time off during difficult personal circumstances without using their annual leave entitlement. While there is no statutory right to paid compassionate leave in the UK, many employers offer it as part of their benefits package.
The most common reason for compassionate leave is bereavement, typically when a close family member or dependent dies. Employees may also need compassionate leave for other emergencies such as a seriously ill family member.
Good compassionate leave policies balance supporting employees during difficult times with maintaining business operations. They typically specify who qualifies, how much time is allowed, and whether the leave is paid.
Practical guidance
How it works
Employees request compassionate leave from their manager or HR. The employer grants leave based on company policy and the nature of the circumstance. Leave may be paid or unpaid.
Best practices
Have a clear, written policy
Train managers on sensitive handling
Be flexible on a case-by-case basis
Consider offering additional support resources
Legal context
Legal basis
Employment Rights Act 1996 (time off for dependents)
Jurisdiction: UK
Key provisions
Statutory right to reasonable unpaid time off for dependents
No statutory right to paid compassionate leave
Parental Bereavement Leave provides 2 weeks for child death
Official source
Frequently asked questions
How much compassionate leave am I entitled to?
There is no statutory entitlement to compassionate leave in the UK. It depends on your employer's policy. Many companies offer 3-5 days for the death of an immediate family member.