Re: Leaves Found In Impeller - Getting Past the Pump Basket-
The picture seems to indicate a gap around the top of the basket. If you have the type of cleaner that allows both skimming of the floating leaves and cleaning of the bottom, then the floaters may be rising to the top of the pump basket when the pump turns off. Then, the moment the pump comes on, those leaves are drawn in around the top edge of the basket and into the impeller.
This theory assumes that the gap I think I'm seeing in the picture really exists.
As mentioned by another poster, the skimmer should have a vacuum plate with a skimmer basket below to catch the leaves.... or as an alternative, install a leaf catching basket that should be inserted in the hose between the cleaner and skimmer. Both solutions can have issues with drawing in air on some installations, so beware.
Ideally you want to keep those leaves from ever getting to the pump basket since a large number of leaves can clog it quickly and cause the pump to work hard which is tough on the motor.