Dealing With Bereavement In The Workplace

Bereavement is a topic that no one wants to deal with, let alone discuss in the workplace. However, research shows that one in 10 employees are likely to be affected by bereavement at any one time.

Current position

Surprisingly, the UK is behind many other countries by not offering a statutory right to bereavement leave. For example, Albania currently offers five days, Israel seven days and Canada three days. Some employers will offer employees compassionate leave in these circumstances. However, how long is at the employer's discretion. Five days is currently the average paid leave employees are given. Employees therefore have to rely on other means, such as sick leave or unpaid time off. There is therefore still a significant gap in the law as to how employers should help employees at this difficult time.