Sickness Absence Policy

Details

Introduction

It is acknowledged that the majority of staff will have some sickness absence during their working lives whether through illness or injury. It is in the Trust’s interest to support employees who are unwell. Occupational Health and Health & Safety Services exist to both reduce risks to staff and assist rehabilitation. The Trust recognises that failure to manage sickness absence appropriately will result in a loss of productivity; increased staffing costs in covering absences and reduced morale.

This document lays out Ashford and St. Peter’s Hospitals NHS Trust’s policy on managing sickness absence in line with Agenda for Change terms and conditions or other NHS terms and conditions of service. The policy meets the legislative requirements set out in the Employment Act 2002 and the Equality Act 2010.

 

Scope

This policy and procedure applies to all employees within the Trust, and covers all absence arising from sickness. For Medical Staff, this Policy should be applied in conjunction with the Conduct, Capability, Ill-health and Appeals Policies and Procedures for Practitioners (Doctors and Dentists).

 

Purpose

This procedure is intended to provide a balanced approach to managing sickness absence to the benefit of both individuals and the Trust.

This Policy documents the procedure that should be followed in the case of repeated episodes of short-term or long-term sickness. The Trust is committed to diversity and equality of opportunity. This policy will be applied fairly and consistently to all staff, and its application will be monitored.

 

Policy Details

Download: PDF version
Compiled by: Employee Relations Manager
Ratified by: Trust Executive Committee
Date Ratified: May 2020
Date Issued: May 2020
Review Date: May 2023
Target Audience: All staff, managers and employee representatives
Contact name: Employee Relations Manager

 

See also:

 

Trust Policies