Managing sickness absence and supporting employee wellbeing – PAST EVENT

Whilst there were high levels of sickness absence due to COVID-19 over the past two to three years, measures such as the furlough scheme, social distancing and home working actually helped to reduce other causes of absence initially. The trend is now shifting back to pre-pandemic levels with sickness levels increasing as people are mixing more socially and at work. According to the most recent ONS statistics, sickness absence rates in the UK are the highest they’ve been since 2010.

Managing sickness absence and supporting employee wellbeing is a priority for many employers. But it’s not always straightforward, especially with the increase in remote working. The steps taken to manage short-term and long-term absence will differ, but in both cases managers have a crucial role to play. It is essential that they have the skills and confidence to carry out that role effectively. Without the appropriate training, managers may try to avoid difficult conversations with employees who have sensitive health issues. This is particularly the case when dealing with mental health related issues.

There are numerous legal issues to consider when managing sickness absence and a number of key steps to take when being proactive in supporting employee wellbeing.

In our webinar, Employment Partner Rajiv Joshi, Senior Associate Vicky Schollar and Senior Practice Support Lawyer Debra Gers discussed:

• the most effective ways of managing short-term and long-term sickness absence;
• the importance of medical evidence;
• the steps to take when an employee fails to maintain contact while on sick leave;
• how to manage capability proceedings and what to bear in mind if the employee may have a disability; and
• how to proactively support mental wellbeing.

You can view a recording of the webinar here.

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Date:
Wednesday 15 March 2023

Time:
10am – 11.15pm

Location:
Webinar

Cost:
No charge