Guide to the Types of Leave and How to Request Them

We understand that our employees may need time off work for various personal, health, or family reasons. This guide outlines the different types of leave available to you and explains the process for requesting each type.

Types of Leave Available

1. Annual Leave (Holiday)

What is it? Paid time off for rest, relaxation, or personal activities.
Entitlement: As per your contract, typically 25 days per year plus bank holidays.
How to request: Submit your leave request through the HR portal or notify your line manager at least 2 weeks in advance. Approval depends on business needs.

2. Sick Leave

What is it? Time off when you are unwell and unable to work.
Entitlement: Paid sick leave according to company policy.
How to request: Notify your line manager as soon as possible on the first day of illness. Provide a medical certificate if absent for more than 7 consecutive days.

3. Maternity, Paternity, and Adoption Leave

What is it? Leave for new parents to care for their child.
Entitlement: Statutory leave and pay entitlements apply.
How to request: Inform HR and your line manager at least 15 weeks before the expected week of childbirth or adoption placement. Complete the relevant forms available from HR.

4. Parental Leave

What is it? Unpaid leave to care for your child under 18.
Entitlement: Up to 18 weeks per child, taken in blocks of one week or multiples thereof.
How to request: Submit a written request to HR and your line manager at least 21 days before the leave start date.

5. Compassionate Leave (Bereavement Leave)

What is it? Time off to deal with the death or serious illness of a close family member.
Entitlement: Typically paid leave of up to 5 days, subject to approval.
How to request: Notify your line manager as soon as possible and submit a request through the HR portal.

6. Other Types of Leave

Jury Service: Paid leave to attend court as a juror.
Time Off for Dependents: Unpaid leave for emergencies involving dependents.
Study Leave: Leave for approved training or exams.

How to Request Leave

Check Your Entitlement: Review your contract and the company leave policy on the HR portal.
Plan Ahead: Where possible, request leave well in advance to ensure adequate cover.
Submit Your Request: Use the HR portal or email your line manager and HR with your leave dates and type of leave.
Await Approval: Your line manager or HR will confirm approval or discuss alternatives if needed.
Record Keeping: Keep a copy of your approved leave for your records.

Need Help?

If you have any questions or need assistance with leave requests, please contact the HR Help Desk at or call extension 1234.

PTO and Leave