Time off

In this section you will find information on all kinds of leave and time off, including annual leave, bank holidays, special leave, time off for interviews or funerals and medical appointments.

If you are granted unpaid leave, there are factors which may affect your pension and entitlement to benefits which should be considered.  These are detailed below:-

Pension

Employees will continue to build up pension in the LGPS for periods of unpaid leave which are less than 31 days, as though they are working normally and receiving normal pay.

No contributions are paid for periods of unpaid leave over 31 days, however members can choose to repay their contributions.

Periods of strike

Days away from work for a day or more due to a strike, will not count for pension purposes. Employees can elect to pay Additional Pension Contributions to purchase ‘lost’ pension. The cost of this is met fully by the employee. More information on this option is available from the Buy lost pension calculator.

Excess travel

If you are in receipt of excess travel, payment will be suspended for periods of additional unpaid leave in excess of one week. The Executive Director or nominated Senior Officer should however take into account the specific circumstances where you may have already purchased a season travel ticket. There will be no extension to the four year payment period.

Annual leave, public and bank holiday entitlement

Annual leave, public and bank holiday entitlement accrues during unpaid leave. In some scenarios, it may be appropriate to use this leave and reduce the period of unpaid leave.

Statutory payments and entitlements

Periods of unpaid leave may affect your right to statutory payments. To be entitled to receive these payments your average weekly earnings must be at or above the Lower Earnings Level (LEL). If unpaid leave reduces the average weekly earnings below the LEL it can cause you to lose your entitlement or it can affect the amount of statutory pay you receive.

If you are in any doubt about requesting unpaid leave, please contact Personnel Services.