30/03/2023

Monday 8 May 2023 is an additional Bank Holiday to mark the coronation of King Charles III, but are employees automatically entitled to paid time off?

The simple answer is no. There is no right to time off on public or Bank Holidays, despite what many people may think.

As an employer, it’s important to plan carefully for Bank Holidays by checking the terms of your employment contract.

If the contract says employees are entitled to:

• ‘Usual’ or ‘normal’ Bank Holidays, they are only entitled to time off for the ‘usual’ eight Bank Holidays observed annually. Any additional days are at the discretion of the employer.
• ‘All’ or if it just says ‘Bank Holidays’, they are entitled to time off for the additional King’s coronation Bank Holiday.
• A specified list of Bank Holidays, those are clearly set out as the days that apply.

How you deal with the extra day depends on the contractual terms, but we understand most employers are giving their staff the extra day off. It all depends on the needs of the business and the industry but always check your employment terms, as you may be giving a day off when you don’t need to, or refusing to give time off which is required under the contract.

For advice on this or any employment law issue, email enquiry@beswicks.com or phone our Stoke-on-Trent solicitors on 01782 205000 or our Altrincham solicitors on 0161 929 8494.

If you are an employer, you can benefit from unlimited employment law and HR advice via phone or email through our low cost Beswicks HR service. Email laura.franklin@beswicks.com to find out more.