Sickness trends in the UK economy
A recent survey conducted by SimplyHealth revealed that employees in the UK are taking more sick days off than at any other time in the past decade.
The study indicates that on average, workers took 7.8 sick days, a notable increase from the 5.8 sick days reported in 2019, marking the highest sick leave rates since 2010.
The survey, involving 918 organizations representing 6.5 million individuals, identified long-term COVID cases, the impact of the cost of living crisis, and mental health issues as the primary factors contributing to this trend.
A significant 76% of the participants attributed their absences to stress. Meanwhile, shorter-term leaves were primarily linked to minor illnesses, with musculoskeletal conditions being particularly prevalent. The report expressed concerns over this pattern, particularly in the context of ongoing challenges for businesses in recruiting skilled personnel.
What is the impact on businesses?
The rise in employee sick leave naturally results in diminished productivity, which has a direct impact on the economic growth nationally. As production expenses surge, businesses might opt for cost-cutting measures, ultimately resulting in workforce reductions and layoffs.
What should employers do?
Although managing the business, cutting costs, and maintaining profit margins should remain business priorities, employers should also be understanding, flexible and tolerant – as becoming adaptable may well be the key to success…
- Management should adopt an open and approachable policy
- Encourage staff to open up and talk about issues that are affecting them
- Make access to EAP programs available so that staff can seek counselling
- Be considerate when dealing with home-working and flexible-working requests
- Adopt policies and procedure to identify and deal with stress at work
- Review, update and maintain an adequate health and safety culture
- Perform workstation assessments to train staff and reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injuries
- Adopt a Stress Management policy
- Adopt Mental Health First Aid (MHFA)
Employers should note that staff are their biggest asset, and their health, safety and wellbeing all have a substantial impact on the business. Being tolerant, approachable, and flexible with staff requests and needs will go a long way towards building a successful business, boosting staff morale, improving health, and bolstering staff loyalty.
Seeking advice
Cumbria Chamber members are advised to call our Chamber Protect helpline on 01455 852 028 to discuss your particular needs. As part of your membership you get unlimited HR and Health & Safety advice from our partner Quest, whose specialist team of advisors can help guide you through the most commercial and practical options available to your business.
© Cumbria Chamber of Commerce