PARLIAMENTARY EARLY DAY MOTION
Statutory paid bereavement leave for all (26 May 2021)

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.

Sponsored by:
Patricia Gibson (Scottish National Party)