Regardless of whether the death of a loved one is expected or sudden, the resulting grief can have an equally upsetting impact. As an employer, it’s important to recognise that this grief can, unsurprisingly, have an effect on an individual’s ability to work.
As such, how can you support your employees in the event that they are grieving? We’ll offer some advice in this blog, discussing the support you can offer them as part of your role in being a responsible and reasonable employer.
Be Open, Empathetic & Communicative
When an employee comes to you to inform you that they have suffered a loss and are currently grieving, the first thing you should do is offer your condolences and assure them that you will do what you can to support them during this difficult time.
It can be hard for those who are grieving to talk about their loss. Make sure to show your understanding for their situation, whilst engaging in open communication. This could include:
● Offering to have their workload covered whilst they grieve
● Reassuring them that they can have the time and space away from work that they need during this time
● Offering to talk with them about the difficulties they face as they are grieving and asking how you can support them
● Celebrating their progress and resilience throughout their grieving journey
Whilst many individuals may have a strong support group outside of work, it can still make a huge difference being reassured that the expectations of them at work are temporarily relaxed during this time, thus allowing them the time they need to process their loss and focus on their grief.
Remember, you should never expect a grieving employee to make work their number one priority.
Provide Wellness Support
If you have the scope to do so, then consider offering bereaved employees some form of wellness support.
This could be in the form of subsidised therapy, inviting them to undertake a wellbeing programme or simply offering them resources to help manage their wellbeing and self-care during this time.
Regardless of how you might provide support, make sure that you let your employees know that this support is available to them.
Offer Time Off
Anyone legally classed as an employee has the right to time off if a dependent (such as a partner, child or parent) dies. Even if your employee has lost someone who isn’t considered to be a dependent, you should still try your best to offer compassionate leave.
Offering time off to process the death of a loved one, navigate feelings of grief and attend a funeral service can be a huge weight off your employees’ minds when they find themselves in such a situation. Not only that, but this in turn can avoid them taking sick leave and helps you to maintain a positive working relationship.
Funeral Directors in Kirkcaldy
If your business is located in Scotland and one of your employees has recently lost a loved one, you can suggest they reach out to us here at Callum Robertson Funeral Directors.
We can offer support and advice on making the necessary funeral arrangements, ensuring they give their loved one the send off they deserve.
Get in touch to learn more about the services and support we offer.
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