Time off for dependants is a day-one statutory right that allows employees to take a reasonable amount of unpaid time off to deal with unexpected situations involving someone who depends on them. It is not a right to extended leave — it covers the immediate emergency and making arrangements.
Who Is a Dependant?
A dependant is:
- A spouse, civil partner, child, or parent of the employee
- Any person who lives in the same household (not a tenant, lodger, or boarder)
- For illness, injury, or assault — any person who reasonably relies on the employee for assistance
When Does It Apply?
The right applies when a dependant:
- Falls ill, is injured, or is assaulted
- Is giving birth (this is for the partner, not the mother — who has maternity rights)
- Dies — to make necessary arrangements
- Has an unexpected disruption or breakdown in care arrangements (e.g., childminder cancels)
- Is involved in an incident at school requiring a parent's attention
How Much Time?
The law allows a "reasonable" amount of time. This is not defined but is generally interpreted as:
- Enough time to deal with the immediate emergency
- Enough time to make alternative arrangements
- Usually one or two days per incident
- Not a right to extended leave to provide ongoing care
Employer Obligations
- The right is to unpaid time off (though some employers pay as a matter of policy)
- The employee must tell the employer as soon as reasonably practicable
- The employee must explain the reason for the absence and how long they expect to be away
- The employer must not subject the employee to any detriment for taking this leave
- Dismissal for taking time off for dependants is automatically unfair
Carer's Leave
Since 6 April 2024, employees also have a separate right to one week's unpaid carer's leave per year to provide or arrange long-term care for a dependant with a long-term care need. This is distinct from time off for dependants and does not require an emergency.
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