Statutory paid bereavement leave for all

Motion Text

That this House calls for the extension of statutory paid bereavement leave to all employees upon the loss of a close family member, following the welcome introduction of paid bereavement leave for parents on the loss of a child up to the age of 18 years old; notes research showing that grief experienced by employees costs the economy £23 billion per year, and costs the Treasury nearly £8 billion per year; acknowledges that whilst some employers offer compassionate leave for staff who have lost a close relative, does not believe that this such leave should be at the discretion of employers; is aware that many bereaved employees face financial pressures to return to work while coping with grief; acknowledges that bereavement can trigger mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorders, as well as being linked to physical health issues challenges such as increased likelihood of heart attacks, diabetes and increased mortality; believes that while bereavement is a fact of life, by providing the necessary support at the right time, we could boost the economy and have a healthier society with a greater sense of wellbeing at its heart; and therefore calls for the Government to act urgently to extend the right to statutory paid bereavement leave to all employees who lose a close family member or partner.