Marvin OnumonuEmployers are addressing the productivity threat from rising sickness rates by adopting flexible work policies, according to a survey by the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC).
The survey found that 48.5% of employers reported reduced productivity due to sickness absences.
Additionally, 36.5% noted a decline in service quality, while 31% observed decreased morale among co-workers.
Financial implications, both direct and indirect, were reported by 26% of the employers surveyed.
In terms of measures being taken to address these issues, 51% of employers offered flexible work policies, and 40% implemented workplace safety measures such as health and safety training.
Health education was a focus for 37% of employers, while 30% offered employee assistance programmes (EAPs) that include counselling or mental health support.
Furthermore, 29% were taking steps to monitor and manage workloads, and 27% promoted workplace physical hygiene.
Only 13% of employers reported not providing any health-related measures, indicating a broad acknowledgment of the importance of employee health and wellbeing.
Kate Shoesmith, deputy chief executive at REC, said: “Tackling rising ill-health is a massive social and economic challenge for the government and business.
“Nearly half of employers we surveyed report reduced productivity due to sickness absence, and as seen in other REC research – a healthy, motivated workforce is essential for everyone’s success.
“The challenges of sickness absence go beyond just physical health, influencing morale and service quality.”
Shoesmith added: “Finding solutions to address sickness absence is paramount, therefore, with many employers already getting on the front foot.
“Just over half are offering flexible working policies – something regularly requested by candidates during a recruitment process and is another reason why measures in the Employment Rights Bill must carefully balance both the individual’s and the employer’s needs.
“With only 13% of surveyed employers not offering any support measures, it is evident that businesses recognise the importance of this issue.”
She added: “As always, government working with employers on innovative and comprehensive health and wellbeing programmes will be the way to tackle and reduce sickness absence levels in the long run.”
“Business productivity and individual success relies on a healthy workforce. With NHS waiting lists far too long, healthcare staffing agencies play a crucial role in filling the gap.
“By providing quick access to care, they help reduce sickness-related absences and keep people performing at their best, benefiting individuals, businesses and the economy.”
