Family friendly leave conversation guide

Practical guidance for employees and managers on having honest and open conversations before, during and after a long period of leave.

Managing a longer period of leave has an impact on employees as individuals, the team they work in, and service delivery.

Both line managers and employees have an important part to play to:

  • prepare for leave
  • agree how to keep connected while the leave is taking place
  • support a smooth return to work

Whatever the situation, it’s important employees and their managers continue to have regular, honest and open conversation before, during and after a long period of leave.

Conversation guide

To make sure you create the most positive and productive experience for everyone, use the guide to help employees and line managers discuss and plan long term leave (PDF, 147KB). 

This guide has been created to help you feel comfortable about the conversations you will need to have and when to have them. It includes practical guidance and advice, as well as key considerations.

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