Compassionate leave for someone whose brother committed suicide

[Kimbles20]

Hi All,

Sorry, wasnt sure where to post this. I just wondered if any of you had some advise on compassionate leave.

My partners work colleague came into work yesterday in a real state because his brother had committed suicide over the weekend. He was in no fit state to work but came in because he was worried he wouldnt get paid and needed the money.

He told the manager and burst into tears on his shoulder. The manager sent him home. Today, the guy contacted work to say he would not be in again today and the manager said that he was only going to pay him for yesterday so if he had today and anymore time off he wouldnt get paid.

Unfortunately, it doesnt mention details of compassionate leave in their contract of employment and it would appear that the amount of time off is at the discretion of the manager and on a case by case basis.

I dont think a day is long enough to let this man come to terms with that has happened and be ok enough to return to work, do you? I thought the manager would have more compassion.

Does anyone have any advice?

Thank you

[mrs.chappie]

Hello Kimbles,

Sorry to read of your colleague's sad news.

When my mum died, in the eighties, I was given three days compassionate leave, plus a day for the funeral. I worked for the council at that time. I vaguely recall being told that I was getting "extra" because it was a parent's death.

I think the same as you - giving just one day is being unkind.

[daniela31]

If he is as upset as that then a visit to his GP is in order, he could get a sicknote and have the time off to recover.
And one in the eye for the lovely understanding boss he has!!!

[Ethel]

Compassionate leave depends on the contract of employment, as stated in the link. This does not have to be paid leave.

Not all employers pay sick leave either - if it is Statutory Sick Pay there is no pay for the first three days, and very little thereafter.

And having 'stress' on your sick record is never a good thing.

One would hope for a better employer, but if it is a small company it may be very difficult for the employer to cover absenteeism.

[mccfluff]

we give 3 days paid leave if its a family member, but that is in the contract. as for sick notes when future employers contact us for refernces we only confirm that dates they were employed, final salary and job title. due to people sueing for bad references we will not give any further information and i think quite a lot on companies follow this

[Kimbles20]

Thank you all for your advice, I really appreciate it.

My partner told me when I got home that his manager must have realised my partner had asked me to find out some information about compassionate leave entitlement because the manager later asked his higher manager about it and he said to take as long as he needs. I am so pleased the manager had a change of heart and that this colleague will be paid for a little while.

Thanks again

[mrs.chappie]

Glad to hear that, Kimbles.