The University released information on annual leave in the April 3 Update from Vice-Chancellor Professor Susan Lea.
In summary: The University encourages staff to take leave as taking some time from work is just as important in the context of remote working as it is when working on campus. It is important to note that if leave is cancelled during the lockdown period, staff are considered available for work as they would under normal circumstances. In addition, carry over for holiday entitlements will only be apply to key workers (e.g. Clinical academics), consistent with government policy on statutory leave. The University expects that the majority of staff will be able to take their annual leave in accordance with the existing policy on leave.
Some members have contacted UCU concerned that they have no time to take annual leave due to the pressure of workload associated with moving to online delivery and changes to assessment submission dates. Also, additional pressures from caring responsibilities have put pressure on staff to spread work over longer time periods. UCU will raise these concerns with management this week. Please note that Trade Unions were not consulted on either holiday leave in the context of current epidemic, or absence reporting. This was due to the University’s need to act quickly. Please do get in touch, if you have concerns and we will bring them to the attention of management. Also, remember to let your manager know if you are experiencing difficulties.