BUSINESSES in Northamptonshire need to take action if they want to stop unplanned absence from having a major impact on their success.
Employee absence does not only mean a desk left empty. It is a financial hit, a productivity slump and a challenge to workplace morale, says HR specialist Rachel Collar.
“For small and medium-sized businesses, every team member is crucial. When one is absent, it makes a huge impact on everything else,” says Ms Collar pictured above, who owns and runs Haus of HR in Towcester. “It is also one of the biggest costs a business faces – that is why it is vital to take absence management seriously.”
She is urging employers to have procedures in place to track absence days in order to understand the patterns, tackle the causes and create a thriving workplace for employees.
Stress and poor mental health are among the main causes of absence. Ms Collar says they should be at the forefront of company culture to help reduce absence and boost employee wellbeing.
“We do not only focus on mental health and wellbeing because it is kind,” she added. “It is a strategic move to ensure your workforce is operating at its best. Prioritise employee wellbeing to ensure a healthy, engaged and present workforce.”
Business owners can do more to manage and reduce unplanned absences. Haus of HR has produced a new guide detailing the measures to consider and implement to reduce and manage absence.
It emphasises the importance of recording absence, understanding the Bradford Score and tackling the root causes, including mental health and stress management.
Business owners can obtain a free copy via www.hausofhr.com.