To Pay Or Not To Pay – That Is The Question!

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...part of their paid holiday entitlement.

Many employers do however pay their staff, provided that they are satisfied that the employee genuinely couldn't get into work!

Ensure you're consistent with how you treat your staff - either pay everybody or don't pay anybody - and also check that you have contingency plans in place.


What if it all goes wrong?

Employees have different rights and potential claims if any request for a right to...

...time off is handled badly, or refused unreasonably. In most cases, employees may bring claims in the Employment Tribunal and compensation can be awarded.

Sometimes, employees and workers who are dismissed or badly treated could bring a claim for unfair dismissal (constructive or otherwise).

A potential danger area is the law on discrimination, particularly in relation to "family friendly" rights.


Practical Tips

- Ensure that you have clear policies in place.

- Stick to your own policies, especially if they're more generous that the minimum provided by law.

- Ensure that you treat all employees the same and you are consistent in your approach.

- If you are faced with a request for time off and you are unfamiliar with the process, check your obligations and the employee's rights carefully before making a decision and take advice where appropriate.

 

 

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