The use of absence triggers in managing absence: the IRS survey
Employers are increasingly using trigger points to instigate action in controlling and effectively managing sickness absence. Such triggers are cumulative and generally consist of a combination of the number of episodes and the total number of days of sickness absence in a given period. The latest findings from IRS on employer practice in relation to absence triggers are based on a survey of 253 employers, with a combined workforce of more than one million employees.
Compiling, maintaining and using absence records: the 2009 IRS survey
Latest research from IRS on compiling, maintaining and using absence records shows that not all employers are happy with the quality of data collected or the use made of records. Over one-third of organisations have taken steps to improve the way absence was recorded within their organisation. Findings also show the importance of line managers in effective absence management and, crucially, in the updating and maintenance of absence records.
Cognitive behavioural therapy in occupational health
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is recognised as an effective tool in the treatment of depression, anxiety disorder and post-traumatic stress disorders. With sound evidence-based guidelines extolling the benefits of CBT, this feature argues that occupational health specialists must consider incorporating it as a tool to address work-related stress.
Management responsibility for absence
Much advice on absence management mentions "creating a positive working atmosphere" but then skips what this means to focus on the process of absence management - measurement, return-to-work interviews, restricting sick pay, etc. What managers may not have grasped is that attitudes towards absence are created, to a large extent, by managers themselves, argues Karen Drury, a partner at management and communications consultancy fe3.
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Noelle Murphy
