NHS workers see improvement as sickness absence reaches a five-year low, offering a positive outlook amidst ongoing challenges.
- Sickness absence in the NHS decreased from an average of 15.52 days in 2012/13 to 14.82 days in 2013/14, the lowest since 2009/10.
- Ambulance service personnel experienced the highest sickness absence rates, while nurses and midwives reported the lowest.
- Regional disparities were noted, with the northwest of England having the highest and north central and east London the lowest absence rates.
- An online tool for absence management is believed to have contributed to the reduction in sick days among NHS staff.
In a notable development for the NHS, sickness absence rates have declined to their lowest level in five years. Sickness days taken across the NHS have reduced from an average of 15.52 days per year in 2012/13 to 14.82 days per year in 2013/14. This decline marks the lowest sickness absence rate since the 2009/10 period.
The impact on different groups within the NHS varies significantly, with ambulance service personnel facing the highest absence rate at 6.78% between January and March 2014. In contrast, nurses, midwives, and health visiting learners exhibited much lower rates, at just 1.1%.
Regional variation in sickness absence also emerged, as highlighted in the latest figures. Health workers in the northwest recorded a 4.6% absence rate, compared to the lowest rate of 3.36% seen in north central and east London.
These figures offer a glimpse into the varying challenges faced by NHS staff depending on their roles and locations. The Health and Social Care Information Centre (HSCIC) suggests that comparisons with other UK sectors should be approached with caution. Unlike other industries, the healthcare sector’s exposure to infectious diseases and traumatic situations presents unique challenges.
To mitigate high sickness absence, an online tool was introduced to the NHS workforce, aimed at enhancing absence management practices. This tool provides guidance on handling absenteeism and offers advice on common health-related issues. Sue Covill of NHS Employers emphasized the importance of such tools, noting their role in fostering a supportive working environment.
Adrian Lewis from Activ Absence acknowledged the significance of effective management, which has shown tangible impacts on reducing sick days, even in the demanding conditions typical of the healthcare sector.
The NHS’s decrease in sickness absence rates highlights effective management amidst challenging healthcare environments.
