Is everyone entitled to special leave to care for a dependent?

Hootie19

Not sure if this is dependent upon the employer, or if it is a right?

Essentially, my DD is very unwell at the moment, and really not able to care for her year old daughter.

Two weeks ago, I had to take a day off to care for my 12 week old grandson who was staying with us, when his mother was taken to hospital. I had anticipated using a day's annual leave for this, but my employer allowed me to take it as special leave to care for a dependent in an emergency.

I wouldn't push my luck tomorrow and ask for another day off, but in any case, I can't help as I am on a two day training course that I really cannot miss.

Just wondering if my granddaughter's father is entitled to take a day or two off work to care for his daughter, as the baby's mother is really not able to care for her (they are separated, and obviously don't live together - he works shifts in a hotel).

LittleVoice

Here (http://www.personneltoday.com/articles/2008/01/21/43979/emergency-time-off-to-care-for-dependants.html ) is some information about emergency leave for care of dependants.

clairec79

I am assuming that he is named on the birth certificate, if so yes he is but it may not be paid

Hootie19

Thank you both.

Yes, he has PR for her, but is saying that they don't have cover for him at work, but may be able to manage a couple of hours. sigh - not much good to my daughter. She really needs to rest and not have to be worrying about the little one at all.

heretolearn_2

Hard, but as an employer I would not count your grandchild as a dependent, so yours is being nice there.

Yes, of course the child's father can apply but bear in mind that this dependents leave is for emergencies and is intended to be short-term - to arrange for care, rather than to provide it directly. It can also be unpaid.