Dad very ill...time off work

[Richard1974]

My dad is currently in hospital and the doctors think the end is near for him. Could be days or weeks.
I feel guilty for taking time off work but feel I should, although I dont know how long I could be off for.
I've already been off alot last year due to the death of my child and feel guilty taking more time off....

I would book time off, (days or a week?) but also speak to my manager. Mine (different employers for each parent) were both understanding and flexible - however, I do also have a job where it's quite easy to be flexible, and with my mother, I ended up spending a few weeks working from her home.

Obviously if you're in something like teaching or nursing or catering or retail or something where you're physically expected to be somewhere, that might not have the same scope for flexibility. I'd still let my manager know what's going on, though, because there's a possibility you will need more time off, rather than less - and in my case, it affected my work, because I didn't cope well.

Wishing you strength - it's a difficult time.

I'm a train driver and work were pretty good during my son's illness but just feel guilty taking more time off

You’ll get over the guilt about work in no time, but can you live with the guilt of not spending that time with your dad? Work is just work. You’ll probably move on from your job, eventually.

Your father, if he was a good father, will always be your father. So sorry you’re going through this, OP. 💐

Don't feel guilty, talk to them, they will understand. Perhaps negotiating pt is a solution?

Speak to your employer and see if you can arrange to reduce your hours or take annual leave.

If you don't feel that you are fit for work, then you can ask your GP to give you a sick note (known as a fit note) after the first week. However be aware that you'll be subject to the sickness absence management policy if your absence is extended.

Cheers. Gonna speak to my manager tomorrow. Got this week off but will go from there.

I expect you're in a Union, Richard , it may be worth having a chat with your Rep just to get an alternative opinion about what your options are before you approach your supervisor.

They often have visibility of past precedent for absence when it's a close relative like parents.

And condolences for the loss of your beloved child. I hope things work out OK re your dad.

I’m sorry that you are going through so much at the moment.

Honestly, a job is just a job. Family comes first. Don’t feel guilty.