Employers must act now to prepare for new bereavement leave rules, says expert

The Government has put forward plans to extend bereavement leave in the UK under the Employment Rights Bill. 

At present, leave is mainly given to parents after a pregnancy loss (after 24 weeks) or if a child under 18 dies. 

The proposals would see at least one week of unpaid leave offered from day one of employment, after the death of a close loved one. 

The definition of “loved one” has yet to be confirmed, but is expected to include immediate family. 

Full details are still to be finalised.

Helen Dyke, senior employment solicitor at Harper James, said: “The government’s commitment to extending bereavement leave through the Employment Rights Bill signals a shift in how employers will need to support staff experiencing loss. 

“While it is positive to see day-one rights for parents facing pregnancy loss at any stage, as well as the introduction of at least a week of unpaid bereavement leave for other close relationships, these changes will inevitably create new obligations and challenges for employers.

“Employers need to take practical steps to review and update their policies and contracts.”