The University is proposing to increase compassionate leave for those on grades 6 and below, and to introduce disability leave for all staff. These are two important subjects covered in the Pay and Conditions Review. 

This improvement will increase the compassionate leave benefit to be closer to that of staff at grade 7 and above, which is outlined in their role terms and conditions and is already higher than for staff on grades 6 and below. The  proposal to introduce disability leave for all staff seeks to ensure a consistent approach to support provided for disabled colleagues.

We are consulting our three trades unions and the proposals will be discussed with various groups across the University, including the relevant staff networks. 

All staff are also invited to give their views before a final decision is taken.

Compassionate leave

The proposal is to increase the provision of compassionate leave for staff on grade 6 and below from up to three to up to 10 days.

It is also proposed that the examples quoted in the compassionate leave procedure for all staff are expanded to introduce the death of a close friend, in acknowledgement of how impactful this can be and of the diversity of close relationships that matter to members of our community.

See the proposal on compassionate leave. 

Disability leave

The University proposes to introduce a new Disability Leave Procedure which will seek to ensure that there is a consistent approach taken by leaders and managers regarding the support provided for disabled colleagues to take planned appointments where requested and approved in advance. This will help to resolve the lack of clarity on such matters under the Leave and Absence from Work guidance and the more recent guidance for staff and line managers.

See the proposal on disability leave, and the proposed Disability Leave Procedure. 

Why these changes now?

Whilst the Pay and Conditions Review was paused in 2024 due to the financial constraints faced by the University, the proposal to change compassionate leave benefit is being made because it improves an important element of our staff conditions for a significant number of people across the University and because the University believes it is affordable in the current financial context.  The proposal to introduce disability leave is being made as it is an important addition to our approach to provide reasonable adjustments for disabled staff under the Equality Act.

Opportunity to provide feedback on these proposals

If you would like to give your views on the proposals above please fill in the attached anonymous survey by 18 July 2025.   

Colin Shipp
Executive Director of HR