The Carer’ Leave Act 2023 will come into force on 6th April 2024 and will create a new statutory unpaid leave entitlement for employees caring for a dependant with long-term care needs.

The following actions are recommended in advance of the April enforcement date:

Seek clarity on relevant definitions, particularly "long-term care" and a "dependant"

N.B. there is no requirement to provide evidence of purpose.

Furthermore, there will be no minimum service requirement – employees will be entitled to take unpaid carer's leave from day one of employment.

Employees are entitled to one week's unpaid leave per year, and how that leave may be taken (i.e. half days, block of days etc.).

Employees are protected from detriment and dismissal where the reason is that they took (or are requesting to take) carer's leave.

Consideration should be given to the handling of any personal data relating to caring responsibilities and associated GDPR implications for both employees and the adult they are caring for.

For additional assistance please do not hesitate to contact the undersigned.