Negotiating checklist on time off for dependants

Reps can to ensure that:

• time off for family emergencies is paid;

• an agreed amount of time can be taken in a year rather than leaving it to an individual manager’s discretion;

• the definition of a dependant should be based on responsibility for the person and not a narrow definition of family members — the definition should include adoptive, fostered and step children, as well as same-sex partners and extended family members;

• there is no length-of-service requirement.