Funded University or non-UKRI co-funded students are able to apply for short-term paid Compassionate or Emergency leave:

• Paid Compassionate or Emergency Leave will normally be restricted to the death of a close family member (e.g. partner, children, parents, siblings, grandparents) or occasions where a close family member suffers a life-changing illness or injury, requiring the student’s involvement and care for the person concerned.

If your funding is provided by UKRI, please click here, as the process is slightly different due to UKRI’s specific terms and conditions.

How long can the paid leave be for?

• In the event of the death of a child under 18 years of age, bereaved parents are entitled to two weeks paid leave. For other emergencies and/or compassionate leave, 5 days paid leave can be requested.    Where your studies are affected beyond that, it is recommended that you consider pausing your studies/funding and request an interruption.

How does this paid Compassionate or Emergency Leave affect my funding and deadlines?

• Your funding end date and your deadlines (upgrade and submission) will be extended by the duration of the leave approved.

How do I apply for it?

• An Emergency or Compassionate Leave request form should be completed and returned to the Doctoral School, copying in your supervisor, with supporting evidence.  Please note that such requests are subject to the approval of your School Director of PGR Education