Special leave helps to support and assist staff in balancing work and home responsibilities.

Special leave is discretionary and provides cover for emergency/unforeseen situations and pre-arranged public service duties. Depending on the circumstances, special leave may be paid, unpaid or a combination of both.

Part-time staff are entitled to special leave under the same conditions as full-time colleagues, on a pro-rata basis.

To maintain service delivery and minimise any impact on colleagues, staff are only expected to use special leave in exceptional circumstances. All annual leave must be taken prior to the approval of emergency/special leave without pay.

All staff should be familiar with the Trust’s special leave procedure.