What’s Shore Leave?

Shore leave is a temporary break from work for sailors to return to land, providing mental and physical rest, and an opportunity to manage personal affairs. Although associated with excessive behavior, it is essential for mental health. However, changes in port security and pressure to reduce shipping times have made it a controversial issue. Military […]

Sweden’s parental leave: how generous?

Sweden offers up to 480 days of parental leave, with fathers receiving two months of paid leave. Parents can also reduce working hours by 25% until their child is eight years old. The government provides a monthly allowance and free education and meals for children. In some cities, parents with strollers can use public transport […]

What legacy did Scotland’s Neolithic builders leave?

Ancient man-made islands called “crannogs” found in the waters around the British Isles were originally thought to date back to the Iron Age, but recent radiocarbon dating of pottery found underwater has revealed they were built during the Neolithic period around 3640-3360 BC, predating Stonehenge. Archaeologists believe the sites may have been used for religious […]

Maternity leave?

Maternity leave allows parents to recover from childbirth and care for their new baby. The Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) entitles full-time employees of companies with 50+ employees to 12 weeks of maternity or family leave per year. Some companies offer paid maternity leave, but most people cover the financial loss with a combination of […]

Compulsory maternity leave?

Compulsory maternity leave is the minimum leave required by law for working mothers. Laws vary by country, with some requiring paid leave. The purpose is to protect the rights of working mothers and prevent discrimination. Employers must provide information about employee rights and may face legal action if they violate the law. Compulsory maternity leave […]

Intermittent Leave: What is it?

Intermittent leave is available under the Family and Medical Leave Act in the US and allows for protected leave for legitimate family and medical emergencies. It can be beneficial for those with chronic conditions or caregiving needs. Eligibility requires proof of illness or emergency and scheduling notice. Employers may require documentation and clear communication is […]

Do casuals or contractors get time off/sick leave?

Casual employees, also known as temporary employees or independent contractors, often do not receive sick leave, vacation time, health benefits, or access to retirement plans. They may have flexible hours but are not protected in case of illness. Some companies use this status to avoid paying benefits. In Australia, new laws allow casual employees to […]

What’s Army Paternity Leave?

The US Army offers 10 days of non-chargeable paternity leave to married soldiers, which must be used consecutively within 60 days of the child’s birth. Other countries may have different policies. Paternity leave encourages fatherhood and strengthens family relationships. Army paternity leave is a policy that grants a soldier the right to take time off […]

US law: paid parental leave?

The US does not offer paid parental leave, with only 11% of employers providing it voluntarily. Other countries with no paid leave include Liberia, Swaziland, and Papua New Guinea. In Sweden, parents can take 16 months of paid leave together. California was the first US state to require paid parental leave in 2004. Federal law […]

Do dads take paternity leave?

Japan offers the longest and best-paid paternity leave in the world, but only 6% of fathers take it. The government is considering making it compulsory and increasing benefits to 100% of normal salary. Many fathers want to take leave but are prevented by staff shortages and workloads. Mothers spend much more time caring for children […]

What’s Bereavement Leave?

Bereavement leave is a non-guaranteed form of work compensation offered to employees who have experienced the death of a loved one. Policies vary, but typically offer three to five days of paid leave. Part-time employees may not be eligible for the same benefits as full-time employees. Employees should ask for written authorization for time off […]

What’s paternity leave?

Paternity leave allows fathers to bond with and care for their new child. Laws and benefits vary by country, but it can be important for practical and emotional reasons. Some employers offer paternity leave, while others require negotiation. Expectant fathers should research and coordinate with their partners and employers. Paternity leave is a form of […]

What’s paid leave?

Paid vacation can be voluntary or mandated by the state, with the most generous packages in the EU. Companies may offer paid time off or flexible PTO, but in busy companies, taking vacation time may be restricted. In countries without mandatory paid vacation, employees may be allowed unpaid leave for family emergencies. Paid vacation is […]

What’s a French leave?

Taking a French leave means leaving a gathering without saying goodbye. It may have military origins, and is acceptable at large parties but not small ones. It can also mean doing something without permission. The term is not considered offensive, but caution should be taken with unfamiliar customs. Taking a French leave means leaving a […]

What’s short leave?

Short-term leave can refer to time off work for up to three months, and can be for illness, vacation, or personal reasons. Legislation may protect a person’s right to take leave for certain circumstances, but most short-term leave is unpaid. Some companies may grant short-term leave for professional gain, but not all employees are eligible […]

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