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V28-460 : ABSENCE LEVELS

The report of the Corporate Director (Corporate Resources and Policy) examined absence levels amongst the former "white collar" employees for 1999/2000. An overall increase of 1111 days lost to sickness over 1998/99 figures was noted, and the report made a number of recommendations to attempt to reverse the trend.

The Head of Personnel drew the Panel's attention to the content of paragraph 2.2 and the Government's target of achieving a 30% reduction in sickness absence results by 2003, which, when allowing for the inclusion of long-term illness, would be very difficult to achieve. Regarding the need for paperwork relating to illness needing to be addressed, the Head of Personnel was to meet with the Admin. Officers Group to discuss new corporate procedural methods, which when decided upon would be reported to the Panel.
Members asked if they could also partake of recommendation 1(i) to receive the influenza vaccination and fitness assessments. The Head of Personnel confirmed that they could, but obviously there would be a charge. The Head of Personnel reported that he had spoken on a Radio Suffolk Local Government special about the document to which the comment had been that the recommendations were forward looking.

RESOLVED

1. That in view of the findings of the report on Absence Levels, The Executive be asked to approve the following recommendations:

(i) That both influenza vaccinations and fitness assessments be offered to employees again in 2001.
(ii) That absence management be given high priority across the Council in an attempt to reduce absence levels in the forthcoming year and that national initiatives be monitored and made full use of as they become available.
(iii) That an audit be conducted by the Personnel Section to ensure that return to work interviews are being conducted after every absence.
(iv) That Stress Management and Home Working Policies be approved and implemented as soon as possible.
(v) That sickness absence procedures and paperwork be reviewed and changes communicated to all staff.

2. That a further report be made to the Scrutiny Panel in 12 months' time.

Volume 28 Minute 460

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