Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: January 8, 2026

Purpose: To consider the Carers Leave Policy and Procedure following legislative updates. It sets out the statutory right of employee’s to carer’s leave to provide or arrange care for a dependant with a long-term care need, and other support that we can offer to combine work with care. To consider a Dogs at Work Policy, that sets out the circumstances in which dogs are allowed to be in the workplace. Recommendation to approve both the Carers Leave Policy and Procedure and Dogs at Work Policy.

Content: The purpose of the report was to Cabinet to consider the implementation of two new policies: 1.    Carers Leave Policy and Procedure – Introduces the statutory entitlement to carers’ leave following recent legislative changes and outlines how the Council will support employees who need to balance work with caring responsibilities. 2.    Dogs at Work Policy – Sets out when and how dogs may be permitted in the workplace, including the conditions and safeguards required to ensure a safe and appropriate working environment.   Councillor Mike Evemy, Leader of the Council, introduced the report and highlighted that the Carers Leave Policy and Procedure was drafted to ensure compliance with legislation, outlining employees’ statutory right to carer’s leave for dependants with long-term care needs and the support available to help balance work and caring responsibilities, with a commitment to employee health and wellbeing.   It was further noted that the Dogs at Work Policy set out the limited circumstances in which dogs were permitted in the workplace, recognising the challenges of dog ownership while prioritising the Council’s commitment to a safe, productive and respectful environment for staff, visitors and councillors.   The recommendations were proposed by Councillor Mike Evemy and seconded by Councillor Tony Dale.   Resolved that Cabinet: a)    Approved the Carers Leave Policy and Procedure and b)    Approved the Dogs at Work Policy   Voting Record 7 For,  0 Against, 0 Abstentions.