Absence Management Workshop (January 2010)

Around 40 employers from across Leeds City Region attended an Absence Management Workshop to hear about employers experiences in managing absence. The workshop was organised by CREC, in collaboration with first direct (Chair of the Contact Centre Group) and supported by Acas, Jobcentre Plus and Remploy.

The proposal of the workshop came about as an outcome of a retention workshop held in February 2009. Whilst attrition rates continue to remain low during the current economic climate, employers have reported an increase in absence. Reasons, such as, financial stress and the inability to seek alternative jobs during the recession, all have an impact on an employees ability to work, in addition to health-related absences which fall under the Disability Discrimination Act.

Darrell Johnson, Training Consultant for Acas, gave an overview on the legal aspect in relation to managing absence levels, whilst employer perspectives were given by first direct and Provident Financial. Delegates were also given the opportunity to look at real-life case studies and share best practice during the syndicate session.