Overview

This bill amends the Employment Rights Act 1996 to give employees the right to take time off work to care for disabled dependants, expanding existing rights which cover only those who are ill. It also allows the Secretary of State to create regulations detailing how this leave will be implemented, including the maximum amount of leave allowed.

Description

The Carers (Leave Entitlement) Bill amends section 57A of the Employment Rights Act 1996. Key changes include:

• Extending eligibility for leave: Employees can now take time off to care for dependants who are either ill or disabled, rather than just ill.
• New regulations: The bill empowers the Secretary of State to create regulations specifying details about the leave, including:
• Definition of what constitutes "caring for a dependant".
• Whether leave must be taken as a single block or in shorter periods.
• Maximum amount of leave allowed.
• Guarantees regarding pay and employment terms during leave and upon return.
• The type of job the employee is entitled to return to.
• Parliamentary Approval: Any regulations created must be approved by both Houses of Parliament before they come into force.
• Geographical Extent: The bill applies to England, Wales, and Scotland, but not Northern Ireland.
• Commencement: The main provisions of the bill will come into effect two months after it receives Royal Assent.

Government Spending

The bill itself doesn't directly specify government spending figures. However, the cost will depend on the details set out in the regulations produced by the Secretary of State. These regulations will determine the extent of any potential costs to businesses and potentially increased demands on government social services.

Groups Affected

This bill will primarily affect:

• Employees: Those with disabled or ill dependants will gain the right to take time off work to care for them.
• Employers: They will be legally required to allow eligible employees time off, potentially impacting operational costs and workforce planning.
• Dependants: Individuals who are disabled or ill, and who rely on others for care will directly benefit from the increased carer's leave entitlements.

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