Employees may need time off for a variety of reasons, from short-term sickness to longer-term health issues. An effective absence management framework should support employees' health needs while providing clear and consistent guidance to avoid unauthorised absence or inappropriate use of sick pay schemes.

This factsheet takes a closer look at sickness absence, the reasons for it, and its implications for organisations. 

Explore our viewpoint on employee health and wellbeing in more detail, along with actions for government and recommendations for employers. 

Read our recommendations for an effective sick pay system.

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