Absence

Introduction

Please try and follow the absence procedures carefully; they are designed to provide the support you need and also to minimize the disruption to colleagues and customers.

Authorized absence

If you need time off ask your manager as soon as possible, the more advance warning they get, the more likely it is they can accommodate you.

Try and arrange appointments such as doctor or dentist outside working hours, but if this is not possible, you should arrange the time off before you confirm your appointment.

Unauthorized absence

You must contact the duty manager before the start of your shift if you need to be off work unexpectedly or at least no later than one hour after your scheduled starting time. Tell them why you are off and when you will be back.

Reporting sickness

If you are going to be off work because you are ill you must telephone the duty manager, or ensure someone calls on your behalf. Please try to call before your scheduled starting time but no later than one hour after scheduled starting time.

Keep in regular contact if the absence continues. We will need a medical certificate for absences of more than 7 days.

Please note also:

• If you becomes sick on the first day of your holidays you may be able to postpone your holiday. This applies only to sickness that starts on that day and you must provide medical evidence.
• If you are sick on the day before or after a 'customary holiday' you must provide a medical certificate or you may not be paid.

Serious illness

You must let your manager know if you are suffering from any of the following illnesses, or if you are a carrier or have had contact with a carrier of any of these illnesses:

typhoid/dysentry

food poisoning

boils or skin complaints

Maternity Leave

• To qualify for leave you must give written notice of at least 21 days that you intend to leave work and that you intend to return to work after your child is born.
• You must take at least two weeks off immediately after your baby is born.
• We will need evidence of the expected week of childbirth (EWC) by the 11th week before it. This is normally a medical certificate or form MATB1.
• Your length of service is calculated at the 11th week before the EWC.

Trade Union

Elected union representatives are allowed paid time off for approved official duties or training. Agree these times in advance with your manager.