Eight in 10 Irish firms have no bereavement policy, says report

Eight in 10 companies in Ireland do not have bereavement policies for their employees, according to a survey commissioned by the Irish Hospice Foundation.

Thirty-four companies were involved in the study, which also found that 44% recorded an increase in sick leave for employees who have experienced a bereavement.

More than 90% of the firms grant paid compassionate leave of between three and five days in the event of a bereavement.

However, the Hospice Foundation says it is concerned at the lack of clear guidelines to help and support bereaved workers.