Absence and Ill Health
We understand the impact that sickness absences can have on day-to-day operations, whether that be frequent short-term absence, or long-term ill health related to a disability.
Businesses need to be equipped to support employees during these periods and our team of legal experts can guide your business through absence processes and help you navigate any tricky issues that may arise along the way. The team can advise on the appropriate steps to take, when seeking external medical advice is appropriate, and mitigate any risk factors. We work with you to minimise the impact sickness absence has on your business.
Absence Policies and Procedures
Ensuring that you have clear and fair processes in place for dealing with absence management is crucial. This is a point of reference for employees, sets out expectations on reporting procedures and sick pay, and ensures consistency of treatment for your workforce. We work with your organisation to ensure that these policies suit your business, industry and are tailored to your specific requirements.
Medical Conditions and Disabilities
Not all medical conditions or disabilities lead to absence from the workplace, however we understand that they can still impact individuals and organisations. We work with you when an employee declares a medical condition to navigate whether they have a disability for the purposes of the Equality Act 2010, whether additional support is required and what is reasonable for your organisation, how best to address related performance concerns, and to direct you to other resources such as Access to Work.
Occupational Health and Medical Evidence
Where an employee’s ill health is preventing them from attending work, or fulfilling their duties in full, we work with trusted providers to provide Occupational Health support. This allows your business to receive an independent report from an Occupational Health professional to assist in determining whether an individual may have a disability, what reasonable adjustments could be implemented in order to support them in the workplace, or whether your employee will be able to return to work at all. We work with your organisation to interpret their report, and navigate the next steps taking into account any risk and the requirements of the business.
Unauthorised Absence
Unfortunately, businesses can sometimes be faced with a scenario where an employee is absent from work with no reason given and/or fails to make and maintain contact. We can help advise on a process that will explain how these cases can be dealt with and what necessary steps should be taken when an employee does not attend work. This can include advising on welfare checks, methods of contact and where appropriate, disciplinary action.
If you require any support with absence-related policies, or have a specific question relating to absence or ill health, please contact the team here.
