A study shows that in UK employees are not taking enough time to fully recover, the sick-leave is a rare document now. According to the ONS Sickness Absence in the Labour Market report, this trend is stable since 2013.
The sick employees prefer to work instead of being on the sick-leave because of the misconcept regarding the payment for these ‘ill’ days. Whilst many businesses do pay company sick pay, often not for the first few days of absence – that is the stumbling block for the employees.
In other words, this means that people prefer to work to ensure they continue to earn money despite their obviously unhealthy status. The employees with contagious illnesses or where bed rest will ensure a ‘full and quick’ recovery (coughs and colds are too!) are not taking the time off but coming to the work place and spreading the pathogen viruses further. The vicious circle.
In 2016, minor illnesses (coughs and colds) were the most common reason for sickness absence. The mental health issues (depression, anxiety, stress, and serious conditions) were the next most common reason for sickness absence.
The experts noted that many employers have recognised the importance of wellbeing in the workplace, they look after an employee’s health and try to offer yoga classes, relaxation sessions or sensible working hours, which have proven and long-term positive effect on the workers.
