When you have been left covering the work of someone who has phoned in sick, it quickly focuses your mind as to the importance of managing sickness absence. Whilst you know that you should manage sickness absence, how to manage it, especially when you’re covering work at last minute, is another problem altogether!
In this blog we will look at some of the practical things that you can do. We will look at how to make the management of sickness absence a priority. Contact Metis HR today and discover how we’re committed to supporting you in managing sickness absence effectively.
You don’t need us to tell you that unplanned absences can disrupt your workflow. Leading to missed deadlines and increased workload for you and the remaining team members. Make sure that your policy on reporting sickness absence is robust and that the early warning you require from employees that they are not coming into work is as lengthy as possible.
Effective management of sickness absence will ensure that essential tasks are still accomplished even in the absence of key employees.
Cost Reduction
Unmanaged sickness absence can result in increased costs for the employer. Paying only Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) might lead you to believe that saving money is possible when employees are not compensated for the initial three days of sickness absence. In reality though, is it? How much is your hourly rate? Whilst you are running around trying to persuade people to cover shifts, who is doing your work? What work remains unfinished? How important is that to the organisation?
If you pay overtime rates to people or use agencies to cover shifts left vacant by people who are unexpectedly off sick, there will be an additional cost above the budget for covering the work that needs to be covered.
Team Morale and Engagement
We all know how much complaining and bad feeling that is caused by employees reporting sick at short notice. The burden it places on colleagues is keenly felt. Especially when they may be getting pressure to cancel personal plans to cover the vacant shifts.
A consistent approach to managing sickness absence demonstrates fairness in the workplace. Boosting team morale, therefore helping employees feel valued. Leading to an increase in trust amongst employees.
Employee Retention
Employees are more likely to remain loyal to employers who demonstrate a genuine concern for their health and well-being. This includes a genuine interest in improving attendance rates. Active sickness absence management demonstrates its role in boosting employee retention rates. This results in retained employees and reduced recruitment expenses.
Prevention of Long Term Absence
Early intervention and support for employees during their illnesses can prevent minor health issues from escalating. Lowering the chances of it turning into more extended periods of absence. Therefore reducing the likelihood of long-term sickness absence and the associated disruption, cost and requirement to consider adjustments.
Overall Organisational Performance
A healthy and engaged workforce is a critical asset for any organisation. By managing sickness absence, employers contribute to a positive workplace culture, enhanced team dynamics, and improved overall performance.
If you’re facing challenges with absenteeism or need support on HR matters, Metis HR is here to help. Contact us for a FREE confidential, no-obligation consultation. Call 01706 565 332 or email admin@metishr.co.uk.
