Sickness Absence Management Policy

2. Principals

1. 2.1.This Policy aims to promote a positive and preventative, rather than punitive approach, regarding sickness and absence management. Employees are expected to attend work regularly and managers are expected to take a proactive approach to retaining employees at work.

2. 2.2.Early intervention and clear, open communication are key to preventing sickness absence and for managers to be able to offer support to employees. As part of normal day-to-day management, discussions regarding sickness absence should take place, including return to work meetings, and these discussions should also pick up on areas of concern and any future planned absences, for example operations.

3. 2.3.This Policy:

   • explains management, employee and HR responsibilities

   • explains how employees should report any absences from work due to sickness

   • sets out how employees will be paid if they are off work due to sickness

   • explains what The Council regard as an unauthorised absence and how such absences will be handled

   • sets out The Council approach to short-term absence

   • explains when The Council might seek a medical opinion in relation to an employee's health and how this will be managed

   • sets out The Council approach to long-term sickness absence

   • sets out the support measures in place for any return to work following sickness absence

4. 2.4.Please note that this Policy is non-contractual, and the Council reserves the right to amend or remove this Policy at any time.

5. 2.5.This Policy applies to all employees.