Small businesses embrace support for bereaved parents as ‘Jack’s Law’ enters Parliament

Press Releases 23 Jan 2020

FSB responds to the announcement that statutory bereavement leave will become a reality.

Commenting on today’s introduction of a Parliamentary Bill that will give parents facing the loss of a child the right to two weeks’ statutory leave, Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) National Chairman Mike Cherry said:

“This first step towards making statutory leave a reality for those facing the tragic loss of a child is vital. Anyone suffering such terrible circumstances should have the full support of their employer and time away from the workplace.

“We’ve engaged with the Government to ensure Jack’s Law works for both employees and small businesses – making it a day one right as it absolutely should be.

“It would be fantastic to see this legislation improved even further with the creation of a parental bereavement allowance for the self-employed.

“Now numbering more than five million for the first time, our sole traders drive the economy forward – and if the worst happens to them and their families, they should also get some compassionate assistance.”

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About FSB

As the UK’s largest business support group, FSB is the voice of the UK’s small businesses and the self-employed. Established over 40 years ago to help its members succeed in business, FSB is a non-profit making and non-party political organisation that’s led by its members, for its members. As the UK’s leading business campaigner, FSB is focused on delivering change which supports smaller businesses to grow and succeed.

FSB offers members a wide range of vital business services, including access to finance, business banking, legal advice and support along with a powerful voice in Government. Each year FSB also runs the UK’s Celebrating Small Business Awards. More information is available at www.fsb.org.uk. You can follow us on twitter @fsb_policy and on Instagram @fsb_uk.