Absence improvement policy template

£ 14

Our Absence Improvement Policy template is designed to support a healthier work environment by helping you to combat absenteeism, ensure fairness, and boost productivity.

10 minute read • 1 February 2025
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Absence improvement policy

1   Overview

1.1   It is recognised by the Company that from time to time staff may require to be absent from their place of work due to illness. The length of time lost by employees through illness must however be monitored to ensure that each member of staff is able to do their job, effectively and without putting themselves or others at risk. It is not the intention of the Company to penalise the genuinely sick, however it must be recognised that an employee who is medically unfit to carry out his/her contractual duties may not be able continue in employment.

2   Scope

2.1   This policy is applicable to all employees of [company name].

3   General principles

3.1   Managers will consider cases of sickness absence on an individual basis and ensure the provision of appropriate support, advice and Occupational Health / Company Approved Doctor input where appropriate. However, it is recognised that in some cases, patterns/levels of absence will be unacceptable and formal management action will be required.

3.2   Employees who become aware that they have an illness problem are encouraged to inform their manager at the earliest opportunity. All such requests will be dealt with as speedily and compassionately as possible.

3.1   Stages

On return from absence all employees must be interviewed by their immediate line manager. At this interview the employee and the line manager must complete a Return to work interview form agreeing the reason for the

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What is this for?

The Absence Improvement Policy is a foundational document designed to address and manage employee absenteeism effectively. This policy outlines clear procedures and expectations regarding attendance, providing a framework to support employees facing recurring absences. It aims to identify the root causes of absenteeism, offer support mechanisms, and establish a structured approach for managing and improving attendance.

This policy typically includes guidelines for reporting absences, defining acceptable reasons for leave, and implementing supportive measures such as return-to-work interviews or access to support services. It also outlines progressive steps in managing frequent or prolonged absences, ensuring consistency and fairness in addressing absenteeism issues. By setting out a structured approach, this policy promotes a proactive response to absenteeism, aiming to foster a culture of accountability and support among employees.

The Absence Improvement Policy serves as a tool for promoting consistent attendance while acknowledging and accommodating genuine reasons for absence. It acts as a mechanism for organisations to engage with employees experiencing frequent absences, identifying challenges they may face and providing the necessary support to facilitate attendance improvement. Ultimately, this policy aims to strike a balance between supporting employees' well-being and maintaining productivity within the workplace.

Extended guidance

absence improvement policy template
  • Employment Rights Act 1996: Provides the framework for handling statutory leave entitlements, promoting work-life balance.

  • Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974: Requires employers to maintain a safe working environment, reducing absences due to accidents and injuries.

  • Equality Act 2010: Ensures fair treatment of employees, addressing absence issues while accommodating disabilities.

  • Flexible Working Regulations 2014: Allows employees to request flexible working arrangements, potentially improving attendance.

  • Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992: Recognizes employees' rights to time off for trade union activities, fostering engagement.

  • Time off for Dependants: Enables reasonable time off for emergency situations concerning dependants, showing compassion.

  • Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006: Prevents age-based discrimination in absence management, promoting fair treatment.

  • Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) Regulations 1982: Outlines employees' rights to receive statutory sick pay, providing support during illness.

  • Statutory Paternity Pay and Leave: Offers paternity pay and leave entitlements, supporting employees during family events.

  • Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (now part of Equality Act 2010): Requires reasonable adjustments for disabled employees, aiding attendance.

Documentation sequence

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Guide to absence improvement

Our absence improvement guide offers insights and strategies for improving employee attendance and reducing absenteeism.

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Absence improvement policy
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Our Absence Improvement Checklist Form Template streamlines tracking and managing employee absences, enhancing productivity and reducing absenteeism.

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