Purpose

To provide an update on the outcome of the review of Mandatory Unpaid Leave.

Decision

1. That the proposal to end Mandatory Unpaid Leave (MUL) from April 2024 and for the Council to enter formal consultation with Trade Unions in this regard be approved.
2. That if agreement is reached after consultation with Trade Unions, employees would utilise their annual leave allowance for the three day Christmas closure period (Friday 27, Monday 30 and Tuesday 31 December 2024) and annually thereafter as per the current collective agreement.
3. That it be noted that if agreed the Christmas closure period for the majority of Council services remains unchanged.
4. That it be noted that employees would continue to have the option to purchase annual leave, as detailed in the Buying Annual Leave Scheme guidance, as a substitute for Mandatory Unpaid Leave.
5. That it be noted that there would be an impact on People Services (HR), Agresso and the Payroll team due to the initial work required to make the amendments (communication, engagement, consultation, changes to terms and conditions, policies and guides) and subsequently a potential increase in purchasing of annual leave, monthly deductions and lost pension buy back related work. At this stage this is not quantifiable and would change on an annual basis so this would need to be carefully monitored to review priorities/put work on hold or bring in additional resource if required.
6. That it be noted that the current arrangements for services not subject to Christmas closure remain the same in that they would still be required to operate as an essential or emergency service.  Employees in these services can continue to choose when they book their annual leave using their entitlement or additional purchased leave.