Time off for emergencies involving dependants
What is the right to time off to care for dependants
This is a right which allows employees to take time off, in unforeseen, emergency situations, to care for their dependants.
Who is entitled to take the time off
The right applies to all employees.
Who counts as a dependant
A dependant is:
- A spouse or civil partner
- A child or grandchild
- A parent or grandparent
- A person who lives in the same household as the employee
In what situations do you have a right to time off
- When a dependant falls ill, gives birth or is injured or assaulted
- To arrange provision of care for a dependant who is ill or injured
- In consequence of the death of a dependant
- Because of unexpected disruption of arrangements for the care of a dependant, or
- To deal with an incident involving a child of the employee which occurs unexpectedly at school
How much time off work you may take to care for a dependant in emergency situations
The Employment Act gives a right to 'a reasonable amount of time off'. What is reasonable will depend on the incident and the individual circumstances. However, it is likely that in the majority of situations no more than a few hours will be necessary.
What happens if your employer refuses to let you take time off
In the first instance you should try to resolve a dispute with your employer.
However an employee may make a complaint to the Tribunal that his or her employer has unreasonably refused to permit the employee to take the time off.
Further information about time off for dependants is available in the guide.
