Tell your employer as soon as possible how much time you’ll need so it can be agreed.
Quick facts
- Who
- Employees
- How much
- A reasonable amount
- How often
- No limit
- Pay
- Not guaranteed
- Planned events
- Not covered
Who counts as a dependant
A dependant could be a spouse, partner, child, grandchild, parent, or someone who depends on you for care.
How much time you get
You’re allowed a reasonable amount of time off to deal with the emergency, but there’s no set amount of time as it depends on the situation.
If your child falls ill you could take time off to go to the doctor and make care arrangements. Your employer may then ask you to take annual leave or parental leave if you want to look after your child for longer.
Pay
Your employer may pay you for time off to look after dependants but they do not have to. Check your contract, company handbook or intranet site to see if there are rules about this.
What is not covered
You cannot have time off if you knew about a situation beforehand. For example you would not be covered if you wanted to take your child to hospital for an appointment. You might get parental leave instead.
For planned care, see carer’s leave.
Common questions
How much time off can I take for a dependant?
A reasonable amount, depending on the situation. There is no set amount.
Is it paid?
Your employer may pay you but they do not have to.
Who counts as a dependant?
A spouse, partner, child, grandchild, parent, or someone who depends on you for care.
Does it cover hospital appointments?
No. You cannot have time off if you knew about a situation beforehand.