BUSINESS SERVICES

Absence management

Sickness absence will, without a doubt, have a significant impact on the performance of any business both in terms of increased costs and reduced productivity.

However by introducing pro-active management using simple effective interventions, the impact can be significantly reduced.

Absence through sickness is estimated to cost UK employers £11.8 billion each year (CBI). Just one average lost day has been calculated to represent £67 in direct costs. More difficult to quantify are the other indirect costs of absence such as poor morale, management time and impact on those at work covering the absence.

It also needs to be accepted that sickness absence is not necessarily a measure of sickness in an organisation, but more a measure of absence for which sickness is given as the reason.

Health needs to be looked from different angles, for instance the effects of work on health or health on work.

Regardless of the cause of ill health – it will influence your bottom line.

Auditing absence:
Analysing your current management of absence will identify its strengths and weaknesses. Considering the flowing items would assist in prioritising areas for improvement.


  • what processes are in place for reporting and measuring?
  • how do you actively manage absence?
  • do your managers have the confidence and knowledge to implement procedures?
  • do you inform or support your employees on health and wellbeing?
  • does your culture support a positive attitude, or do employees feel entitled to occasional sick leave?
  • do you have a policy and processes for managing stress which is often a significant driver behind absence?


To improve your attendance rates and increase your profits, call Heather on 01239 711799 or email her at heatherg@lifecraft.co.uk

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