Bereavement leave

What bereavement leave covers

Bereavement leave is a general name for time away from work after someone dies. There is no single statutory right to paid bereavement leave in Great Britain, but particular circumstances can create specific rights.

An employee may have a right to reasonable unpaid time off to deal with the immediate consequences of a dependant's death. Eligible parents can take Parental Bereavement Leave following the death of a child or a qualifying stillbirth. Bereaved Partner's Paternity Leave also applies in qualifying circumstances from 6 April 2026. Each right has its own eligibility and notice rules, so check which one applies before recording the absence.

Many employers provide broader paid or unpaid compassionate leave through their own policy. A useful policy explains who it covers, the usual amount of leave, how pay works and who can agree more time when a fixed allowance is not enough.

Handle the absence with care

Start by asking what the person needs now. They may not yet know how long they will be away, and practical details can change quickly. Confirm the immediate arrangement, then agree when you will speak again.

When you record the absence, separate the statutory leave from any extra leave offered under company policy. Confirm the leave type, dates and pay, but do not collect unnecessary details about the death. If the employee needs more time, discuss annual leave, unpaid leave or another suitable arrangement without making assumptions about what is right for them.

Check the current Acas bereavement guidance before making a final decision. Eligibility can depend on the relationship, the circumstances and when the bereavement happened.