“Jack’s Law” Paid bereavement leave for Parents who suffer the loss of a child under 18

The UK is about to be the first country in the world to allow parents who suffer the loss of a child under the age of 18 years, to take paid bereavement leave.

Following a campaign by Lucy Hurd “Jack’s law” will be introduced from April.

Lucy’s son Jack died aged just 23 months when he drowned in a pond. Jack’s father was entitled to only three days off work to grieve, one of these being the day of the funeral. Lucy recognised that in the aftermath of the death of a child the parents not only have to cope with their own grief but also that of siblings and the wider family. A sudden death may involve a post-mortem or inquest. Parents will now be entitled to take two weeks paid leave from work. It is hoped this will help 10,000 families a year in the UK.

If you need help and legal advice following a bereavement or a difficult employment issue please contact Wrigley Claydon Probate solicitor Rachel Damianou on telephone (0161) 624 6811 option 3/email rld@WrigleyClaydon.com  and our employment solicitor John Porter  can be contacted on telephone (0161) 624 6811 option 4/email jap@WrigleyClaydon.com