As Storm Goretti impacts the UK this week, inclement weather has forced the closure of numerous schools due to heavy snow and ice. Many areas are experiencing freezing temperatures, prompting amber warnings for severe weather. This situation has left many parents concerned about their work obligations, pay, and childcare options.
What Parents Should Know About School Closures
Parents can expect various responses from schools when closures occur. The Department for Education suggests that schools switch to remote learning when possible. Most schools have already established plans for remote education, which may include:
- Recorded lessons
- Live online sessions with teachers
- Assignments through online platforms
Parental Rights During School Closures
According to the Employment Rights Act 1996, parents have the legal right to take time off work if their child’s school or nursery closes unexpectedly. This leave, known as dependant leave, applies to all employees, regardless of part-time or full-time status. It’s important for employees to notify their employers as soon as they are aware of a school closure.
Employees should provide updates to their employers as they receive more information from the school. However, the term “reasonable” regarding the duration of dependant leave is not specifically defined and can vary depending on individual circumstances.
Long-Term School Closures and Childcare Arrangements
If a school is closed for an extended period and alternative childcare cannot be arranged, parents face limited options. It’s advisable to keep employers informed and to provide written documentation regarding the school’s closure. If alternative childcare options are unaffordable or unavailable, employees may have to resort to using their annual leave or requesting unpaid leave.
Flexible working arrangements, such as telecommuting, may also be an option, depending on the employer’s policies and the nature of the work. However, there is no guaranteed right to paid time off during lengthy school closures.
Employee Rights Without Children
Employees without children may also experience challenges due to severe weather. There is no automatic legal entitlement to pay if someone is unable to get to work because of snow or ice. Workers should inform their employers as soon as possible when travel is unsafe. While some employers may allow remote work, they are not required to do so.
In cases where employers close the workplace due to weather, employees should be guaranteed their pay. Each employer’s policy may differ, so employees should review their contracts and clarify options with their employers early on.
What to Do if You Believe Travel is Unsafe
If parents believe it is unsafe for their child to travel to school, they should communicate with the school following the absence reporting protocol. Providing clear reasoning can assist in documenting the absence accurately.
Safe Workplace Conditions
Employees may wonder if they can be sent home due to cold workplace conditions. The Health and Safety Executive recommends minimum workplace temperatures of 16°C for mostly desk-based tasks, and 13°C for physically demanding jobs. Employers are obliged to ensure a reasonable indoor environment under the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992.
If temperatures are deemed too cold, employees should raise their concerns with their employer, who must consider the various factors involved. Practical remedies could include allowing warmer clothing or providing extra breaks for hot drinks.
In summary, Storm Goretti presents significant challenges for families, particularly regarding school closures and travel disruptions. Understanding your rights and available options is vital during these severe weather conditions.
