Find out more about London event on 1 December 2009
Find out more about Leeds event on 7 December 2009
This course will give delegates the practical skills to apply the process of managing sickness absence, carry out effective welfare meetings and interviews and make the process much easier.
Off the sick list! How to turn employee absence into attendance
As employers we have to accept that there will always be some sickness absence and manage accordingly. But there is a distinction between knowing that there will be some sickness absence and managing unacceptable levels. It’s important to remember that life isn’t always black and white and that while our policies and procedures provide useful guidance, there’s no ‘one size fits all approach’. Every case turns on its own facts.
Tackling absence isn’t always straightforward. Absences come in many different forms, may be of varying durations and come about for a variety of reasons. Employers have to develop a range of proportionate responses. There is no one ‘right’ way of going about it, but any actions you take must always be fair and reasonable. Inappropriate or discriminatory action can lead to expensive legal settlements.
Many employers are reluctant to manage absence, but it’s really important to take control of any attendance issues.
The costs of absence are high and failure to address problems impacts on everyone in the business. Simple ‘crack-downs’ can be counter-productive, but attendance control works better where it is part of a wider set of measures.
Dealing effectively with absence calls for a continuous and coordinated effort. Sound, fair and consistent policies and procedures can provide a framework within which absence problems can be better handled and a tactical approach can help you resolve problems with employees who ‘go to ground’ or otherwise obstruct the process.
The real key to success to managing absence at work is taking action at an early stage, keeping good records and following correct procedures.
View the programme agenda
