At Automata, we understand that long-term sickness, serious medical conditions, and personal emergencies can significantly affect an employee’s life. This policy is designed to provide guidance on the provision of discretionary additional leave, which may include a mixture of paid and unpaid days, in circumstances such as emergency surgery, extended illness or recovery, and other personal emergencies. Decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis to support our employees while balancing business needs.

Eligibility

This policy applies to all permanent employees experiencing long-term sickness or personal emergencies that impact their ability to work. Specific circumstances that may be considered include, but are not limited to:

• Emergency surgery and post-operative recovery
• Extended periods of illness or injury requiring prolonged recovery
• Significant personal emergencies affecting health or wellbeing

Request Process

• Notification: Employees should inform their line manager and HR as soon as possible if additional leave beyond standard sickness absence is required.
• Documentation: Supporting documentation, such as medical certificates, hospital reports, or other relevant evidence, may be required to assess the request.
• Submission: Where possible, requests for additional leave should be submitted in writing, detailing the nature of the situation, the expected duration of leave, and any pertinent circumstances.

Discretionary Additional Leave Criteria

Additional leave is not an automatic entitlement but may be granted under certain circumstances. Factors considered include:

• The severity and nature of the illness or emergency
• Expected duration of leave and recovery period
• The employee’s overall work history and contributions
• Impact on the employee’s well-being and the anticipated date of return
• Business needs and operational requirements

Decision Process

• Joint Review: The line manager, in consultation with HR, will review each request individually.