Absence Management

On average each employee has almost seven days absence year, so a proactive approach to managing this can really help to support the employee while getting them back to work as soon as possible.

The starting point is an accurate, regular and consistent collation of absence data.

From there appropriate programmes can be devised with discussion points including:

• Absence notification procedure and recording
• Internal versus external services
• Agreeing “trigger points” for follow up action e.g. a total or consecutive number of days absent, pattern of Monday absence
• Proactive follow up – e.g. nurse to call and offer support
• Identify any “hidden” causes
• Look at ways to assist in early return i.e. part time, transport
• Return to work interviews
• Line management training