Acas has recently published a very helpful advice and guidance note in relation to workplace support for parents with premature or sick babies. This can be accessed at www.acas.org.uk.
Employers in such situations often find it difficult to know how best to deal with parents in a sensitive way. The ACAS advice encourages them:
- To be compassionate and sensitive in all communications
- To ask parents what they would like them to tell their colleagues about their situation
- Make employees aware of their statutory entitlement to leave including, for example, shared parental leave; and
- To be flexible in allowing time off when parents return to work for follow up appointments or treatment
We are able to provide advice to employers and parents facing what can be a difficult and anxious time. If we can be of help, please contact Partner, Geoff Lamb at our office.
