Record long-term sickness absence
2.5 million employees are reported to be on long-term sick leave in the UK. We know statistically and from our own experience that the longer an absence persists, the less likely an employee is to return to work. Simple steps can help support employees back to work:
- A clear absence policy supports managers and employees to understand expectations and when intervention can be expected
- Balanced, proactive communication ensures the employee feels informed and understands next steps
- Welcome back meetings (some call them ‘return to work’) ensure the employee understands the support available and the next steps if there is further absence
- GP or occupational health support provides medical insight and support (provided their involvement is requested appropriately).
It can sometimes be tricky to know what options are open to you when managing long-term absence, we’re here to help.
ACAS guidance on whistleblowing
ACAS recently published new guidance on whistleblowing for employers and employees. It’s not always clear if an employee has ‘blown the whistle’ and can be tricky to understand your options (again, that’s what we’re here for). The new guidance provides a helpful breakdown and practical examples of:
- Who is protected by the law on whistleblowing and when it applies
- Legal protections from detriment
- The type of disclosures protected
- How employees can make a disclosure and how you should respond
- What your whistleblowing policy should cover (we have one on Intelligent Employment here)
People dates for your diary – September 2023
18 | International Equal Pay Day
18-22 | International Week of Happiness at Work
25-29 | National Inclusion Week
