New compassionate leave policy supports families

November 10, 2021 - Defence Stories

Planning and raising a family can surely be a thrilling phase of our lives, as we experience pregnancy or adoption and enjoy holiday gatherings with our loved ones. Unfortunately, there are sometimes situations of pregnancy or adoption loss, family violence or crime which bring trauma or stress to our members, and additional support is needed.

Through good times and the not-so-good times, families will always be the major source of support and strength to Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members, and they are integral to military success. As such, our members continue to be supported by a robust compensation and benefits framework.

The Director General of Compensation and Benefits (DGCB) recently introduced new sub-types of compassionate leave, which are now included in Chapter 7 of the Canadian Forces Leave Policy Manual (CFLPM). This new initiative will help reduce personal and family stress for CAF members so that they can focus on the challenges at home when difficult situations arise.

Following the publication of CANFORGEN 139/21, CAF members may now request compassionate leaves under the following sub-types:

• Situation of pregnancy or adoption loss;
• Victims of family violence; and
• Parents of young victims of crime.

DGCB has also introduced two new short leave sub-types which were communicated in the publication of CANFORGEN 166/21. CAF members may now request short leave under the following sub-types:

• Family-related obligations; and
• Religious and spiritual observances.

For more information on the leave policy amendments, please refer to Chapter 9 of the CFLPM.

In challenging personal situations, remember that you can talk to your chain of command, or for confidential counselling, reach out to the Canadian Forces Member Assistance Program (CFMAP).