Types of Absence Management

There are a number of ways absence can be managed within various organisations, however in this case I will be exploring the 2 types of absence management commonly operated; proactive and reactive.

Proactive absence

management

This is the most effective way to handle staff absence, providing many benefits for both the employers and employees. These can include; managing expectations, allowing time to plan for the absence and ensuring a smooth and productive return to work.

It requires visiting an employee prior to a planned absence, for example, if they are undergoing a surgical procedure. Using experience and evidence-based practice, a plan will be drawn up for the projected recovery. This may include a phased return with reduced hours or duties that are progressively increased.

Reactive absence management

This takes place after an employee goes off work sick. In this case, the plan is solely focused on their return to work and determining when they will be fit to do so. We visit the individual at home (also known as home Visits) and offering reasonable adjustments to aid return to work. If an employee is fit to return, they can return at any time prior to the expiry of their sick note, with advice from Occupational Health experts.

I am currently working on launching a free toolkit to help those managing absence, the aim is to help small to medium size organisations, but it is also of interest to larger organisations. Please contact me for your copy or/and advice on this topic.