Managing sickness absence

by Practical Law Employment

A practice note that provides practical and legal guidance for employers on the management of employee sickness absence. It covers the issues arising from both short-term and long-term absences, outlining steps to assist employees in their return to work and, where necessary, the process for managing situations up to and including dismissal. The note explores the implementation of effective sickness absence procedures, managing return to work interviews, and handling an employee's conduct during sick leave. Alternatives to dismissal are also considered, including permanent health insurance (PHI) and ill-health retirement, offering a guide to navigating the complexities of prolonged employee incapacity. Several issues that may require particular attention by employers are also considered including pregnancy-related illness, holidays and sickness absence, absence due to cosmetic surgery, dealing with terminal illness and calculating notice pay for employees on sick leave.