According to new research from Accor Services, flexible working can reduce sickness absence. The report, commissioned by the charity, Working Families, revealed that working from home, flexible hours and special leave have helped to cut absence in both public and private sectors.
The survey found that the average absence rate was 7.3 days. Around 46% of firms had found that absence had fallen over the last year. Eighty five per cent of employees polled said that flexible working was the best incentive in managing absence, while 76% said that a return to work interview was the biggest deterrent.
The top three causes for absence were stress, caring responsibilities and managing other work-life issues.
Our view
It is a fine balance between offering flexible hours fo staff and ensuring you have enough staff to deliver a good service to your clients.