{"id":10415,"date":"2025-02-14T18:54:48","date_gmt":"2025-02-14T18:54:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.brightmine.com\/uk\/?post_type=resources&#038;p=10415"},"modified":"2026-07-22T09:25:03","modified_gmt":"2026-07-22T09:25:03","slug":"absence-management-an-hr-managers-guide","status":"publish","type":"resources","link":"https:\/\/www.brightmine.com\/uk\/resources\/hr-compliance\/absence-management\/absence-management-an-hr-managers-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Absence management: An HR manager\u2019s guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide has-primary-white-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-f85887e8 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:25px;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-929090b5 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:70%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-a4641b2f wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">by <strong>Brightmine<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keeping a grip on employee absence while <a href=\"\/uk\/solutions\/hr-compliance-solutions\/\">ensuring strict compliance<\/a> to employment laws and guidelines is crucial to long-term business growth. Let\u2019s take a closer look at absence management and the best ways to maintain it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"absence-management\">What is absence management?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Absence management aims to reduce employee absenteeism and its impact on organisational productivity. It involves implementing procedures to monitor, understand, and address the root causes of employee absence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By identifying patterns and the reasons behind absenteeism\u2014whether due to health, personal issues, or workplace dissatisfaction\u2014employers can put into place strategies such as flexible working arrangements, wellness programmes, or improved support systems to support employees. Alternatively, disciplinary procedures can be initiated if it is found the absence isn\u2019t genuine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Effective absence management promotes accountability and clear communication, ensuring employees feel supported while minimising disruptions. This approach benefits the organisation by maintaining efficiency and supports employees by addressing their needs and fostering a healthier work environment. Overall, effective absence management should strike an even balance between managing attendance and <a href=\"\/uk\/resources\/total-rewards\/employee-benefits\/improving-employee-wellbeing\/\">supporting employee well-being<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-left-color:var(--wp--preset--color--secondary-blue);border-left-width:5px;padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left has-medium-font-size wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:500\">&#8220;Effective absence management promotes accountability and clear communication, ensuring employees feel supported while minimising disruptions.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Example of absence management<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Absence management strategies and tactics will vary by business sector, by company and from role to role, but let\u2019s imagine you have an employee who frequently calls in sick on Mondays. What is the best solution to this situation?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-brightmine-list-item-spacing-small\">\n<li class=\"\">Your HR team uses HR software to track the employee\u2019s absence and after observing an irregular pattern, they hold a supportive meeting with the worker under the absence management procedure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\">The meeting reveals work-related stress to be the underlying cause of the absenteeism<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\">In response, you review the employee\u2019s workload, introduce flexible working hours and offer your workers access to an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\">Regular check-ins are scheduled with the employee to monitor progress and ensure they are sufficiently supported<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\">The successful outcome is a reduction in absenteeism, improvements in the employee&#8217;s well-being and a normalisation of workplace productivity<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"absence-v-leave\">What is the difference between absence management and leave management?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Absence management focuses on addressing unplanned or frequent absenteeism by identifying causes and implementing solutions to reduce its impact. It involves monitoring patterns, supporting employees, and fostering workplace productivity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In contrast, leave management controls planned time off, such as holidays, maternity leave, parental leave, or sick leave, through a systematic process of requesting, approving, and tracking leave. It ensures compliance with policies and legal requirements and promotes fairness and smooth operations without disrupting workflows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"absence-types\">What types of absence are there?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Absenteeism can occur for a wide range of reasons, but they will typically fall into one of the following categories:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Planned absence<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Planned absence is authorised time off requested by employees for reasons as varied as holidays, personal appointments, or family commitments \u2014 such as welcoming a new child into the family. Employers may also offer extra leave for purposes such as attending medical or legal appointments or simply taking time off to recharge and prevent burnout. If employees follow the proper procedures to schedule their leave in advance and through official channels, these instances are not considered absence management issues but are part of regular workplace policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Unplanned absence<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Unplanned absences occur when employees unexpectedly miss work due to unforeseen circumstances. These may include <a href=\"https:\/\/www.acas.org.uk\/checking-sick-pay\/statutory-sick-pay-ssp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">sickness or injury<\/a> \u2014 either short term or long term \u2014 where time off is necessary for recovery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bereavement, such as the loss of a loved one, also qualifies as an unplanned absence, with legal rights for specific situations such as parental loss. Travel disruptions, such as public transport strikes or dangerous weather conditions, may also prevent attendance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Effective absence management should address such cases with empathy, offering support to employees while working to reduce the likelihood of repeated occurrences and maintaining workplace productivity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-secondary-gray-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-9d6014a6 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:15px;padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-bottom:15px;padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600\">What is short term sickness absence? <\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Short-term sickness absence refers to employees missing work for a brief period due to minor illnesses or injuries. This type of absence would typically be less than seven days, although businesses may have rules that reduce or extend this time span. Short term sickness absences are often managed with self-certification or minimal medical documentation.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-secondary-gray-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-9d6014a6 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:15px;padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-bottom:15px;padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600\">What is medium term sickness absence<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/hrcentre.uk.brightmine.com\/commentary-and-insights\/redefining-the-length-of-sickness-absence\/89504\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Medium term sickness absence<\/a> is defined as a period of more than one week, but less than four weeks. Although some businesses may not recognise this relatively new definition, it can help employers to identify the potential for longer absences earlier and provide space to address the underlying issue(s) before they develop into a full-blown problem.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-secondary-gray-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-9d6014a6 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:15px;padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-bottom:15px;padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600\">What is long term sickness absence? <\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Long-term sickness absence occurs when employees are unable to work due to serious health issues \u2013 typically for four weeks or more. To manage this type of situation, employers will usually request appropriate medical documentation and offer reasonable adjustments, such as a phased return to work or flexible working.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Unauthorised absence<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Unauthorised absence refers to all other types of absence from work and it should be regarded as a serious business concern. Employers should take immediate steps to identify and remedy the cause of the absenteeism as soon as it is discovered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"absence-rates\">What is the typical rate of employee absence?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The rate of employee absence in the UK varies by industry. High risk sectors, such as construction, shipping or mining will typically experience higher rates of absenteeism than many other industries. Brightmine research reveals that UK-wide, the median absence rate in 2023 was 5.10 days per full time employee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"absence-process\">What is the absence management process?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An absence management process provides a clear framework for controlling planned, unplanned and unauthorised employee absenteeism. It gives your employees guidance on what they need to do when they are absent and delivers a foundation for company management to work from when confronted by issues of absenteeism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An effective absence management process should:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Provide clear absence policies<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your rules and procedures regarding staff absences should support workers and management to navigate problems caused by absenteeism. Your policies should set out the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-brightmine-list-item-spacing-small\">\n<li class=\"\">How employees report absences<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\">Who manages staff absences within the organisation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\">The escalation process for recurrent or prolonged employee absence<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\">Disciplinary procedures and consequences for unauthorised absences up to termination of employment<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Monitor and record absences<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tracking and recording employee absences is important to assess their long-term impact on performance and validate absence policies. Without proper data, it will be difficult to evaluate individual or departmental performance or improve your systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-secondary-gray-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-f1e3dc65 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Top tip<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Specialised HR software can simplify and speed up absence recording, which in turn can drive better analysis and absence policy refinements.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Meet with employees as they return to work<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Non-holiday, multi-day absences can be a serious business problem that requires attention and formal communication. Companies should meet with returning employees on their first day back to discuss concerns and offer support, such as adjusted work arrangements for chronic illness. A direct and sympathetic approach can ensure understanding and provide necessary accommodations as well as strengthening employee well-being and maintaining productivity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Train your managers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Line managers are key to absence management, as they are best situated to understand its immediate and long-term effects on production and the needs of employees. However, managers will typically need training to succeed. Guiding managers to build a culture of trust can foster open communication with employees regarding absence issues and help to minimise workplace disruption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Provide occupational health services and employee assistance programmes (EAPs)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When employees are facing long-term sickness that affects their attendance or may even prevent their return to work at all, employers should explore suitable occupational health services and employee assistance programmes (EAPs). These services are designed to help the long-term sick to return to work without compromising their well-being. EAPs can also help employers implement necessary adjustments for disabled employees. Employers should train to differentiate between sickness absences and disability leave to ensure appropriate support and compliance with legal obligations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Be flexible<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It doesn\u2019t have to be a case of \u2018all work\u2019 or \u2018no work\u2019. You can avoid binary decisions regarding employees with legitimate long-term absences by adopting flexible alternatives. For example, offer remote work options or allow employees to fulfil their contractual hours over longer days, creating more days off. You could also consider temporary reassignments or, if necessary, permanent redeployment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-secondary-gray-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-f1e3dc65 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Top tip<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When reassigning or redeploying, ensure contracts and payments are reviewed and adjusted appropriately to support these changes effectively while maintaining fairness and compliance.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. As a last resort, consider disciplinary actions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When all other measures fail, disciplinary action may be the only way you can address absence violations and prevent recurrence. However, be sure that offenders receive fair warnings about absenteeism consequences. Procedures should strictly follow guidelines, ensuring compliance with the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/equality-act-2010-guidance\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Equality Act<\/a> to avoid claims of discrimination or unfair dismissal, especially for disabled employees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"hr-role-absence-management\">What is HR\u2019s role in absence management?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">HR can play a vital role in absence management by creating clear policies, tracking employee absences, and ensuring compliance with legal obligations. HR teams should also support your managers to address absences effectively and offer guidance on fostering communication and trust.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ultimately, it is HR\u2019s role to ensure the fair treatment of employees, assess the need for reasonable adjustments, and to maintain compliance with relevant employment laws while simultaneously minimising disruptions and enhancing your organisation\u2019s productivity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"absence-management-tips\">Tips to effectively managing absences<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tackling the issues of employee well-being can make a major dent in staff absenteeism. Here are some suggestions you could implement:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-secondary-gray-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-f1e3dc65 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Increase holiday allowances<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Addressing widespread absenteeism typically involves boosting staff morale and enhancing the company\u2019s value as an employer. Increasing holiday allowances gives employees more legitimate time off and can reduce unauthorised absences. You could also consider tying holiday increases to staff attendance levels as an incentive to promote reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Offer \u2018Duvet Days\u2019<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Providing staff with \u2018duvet days\u2019\u2014days off without prior notice\u2014allows employees to take time off for any reason. These days encourage employees to use sick leave only when genuinely needed, fosters trust and can reduce unnecessary absences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Improve your workplace culture<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A positive workplace culture boosts morale, engagement, and unity. Strong management, clear goals, and a well-defined vision can help to reduce absenteeism by aligning employees with company values. Leadership should actively shape your workplace culture and reinforce its importance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Reward employee attendance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Recognise and reward high attendance with incentives such as bonuses or additional time off. Celebrate employee contributions via email bulletins or team meetings to emphasise the importance of good attendance.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"healthier-work-environment\">Absence management for a healthier, more productive work environment<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Effective absence management is crucial for maintaining organisational productivity, employee well-being, and legal compliance. By implementing clear policies and procedures, offering flexibility, and fostering a supportive workplace culture, employers can minimise the disruptions caused by absenteeism. Ultimately, a balanced approach to managing absences can support both your organisation\u2019s efficiency and your employees\u2019 needs and help to create a healthier and more productive work environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Get started with Brightmine<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Se how Brightmine can help you improve absence management and other key HR practices. Start your free trial today.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column lnrs-hide-block-on-mobile is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-left-color:var(--wp--preset--color--secondary-gray);border-left-width:2px;padding-left:10px;flex-basis:30%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained wp-container-2 is-position-sticky\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-secondary-gray-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-9abcfde1 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:14px;padding-top:10px;padding-right:10px;padding-bottom:10px;padding-left:10px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-1f96cfca wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<p style=\"margin-bottom:5px;font-style:normal;font-weight:400\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this resource:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p style=\"margin-top:5px;margin-bottom:5px;font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.274), 16px);line-height:1.3\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"#absence-management\">What is absence management<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p style=\"margin-top:5px;margin-bottom:5px;font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.274), 16px);line-height:1.3\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"#absence-v-leave\">Absence management vs leave management<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p style=\"margin-top:5px;margin-bottom:5px;font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.274), 16px);line-height:1.3\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"#absence-types\">Types of absence<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p style=\"margin-top:5px;margin-bottom:5px;font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.274), 16px);line-height:1.3\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"#absence-rates\">Typical rate of employee absence<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p style=\"margin-top:5px;margin-bottom:5px;font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.274), 16px);line-height:1.3\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"#absence-process\">Absence management process<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p style=\"margin-top:5px;margin-bottom:5px;font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.274), 16px);line-height:1.3\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"#hr-role-absence-management\">HR&#8217;s role in absence management<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p style=\"margin-top:5px;margin-bottom:5px;font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.274), 16px);line-height:1.3\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"#absence-management-tips\">Tips to effectively manage absences<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p style=\"margin-top:5px;margin-bottom:5px;font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.274), 16px);line-height:1.3\" class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"#healthier-work-environment\">Absence management for a healthier, work environment<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-bleach-white-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-22a7c014 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:14px;padding-top:10px;padding-right:15px;padding-bottom:15px;padding-left:15px\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Navigate HR complexity with confidence<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With Brightmine, you can build powerful people strategies, implement best practices and set your organisation up for a brighter future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Learn how our tools, resources and automation can empower you and your team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"\/uk\/solutions\/?intcmp=cta|blog|solutions|learn-more\" style=\"border-radius:25px\">Learn more<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40)\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"#top\">Go back to the top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-primary-white-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-bf6e01c1 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:25px;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">You may also be interested in&#8230;<\/h2>\n\n\n<section id=\"resources-search-filter\" class=\"wp-block-brightmine-resources-filter has-text-color has-primary-gray-color has-background has-primary-white-background-color\">\n\n\n<div class=\"ajax-filter\">\n<div class=\"lnrs-resources-search-filter  editor-posts-filtered-topics \">\n\t\t<div class=\"search_terms_bottom\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"bottom_left\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"search_terms_result_count\">\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"bottom_right\">\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\t<div class=\"loader-container\">\n\t\t<span class=\"loader\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/span>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\n\t<div class=\"lnrs-resource-filter-widget__container\">\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"lnrs-resource-hub-widget__resource\" style=\"background-color: #f3f2f0\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.brightmine.com\/uk\/resources\/talent-management\/employee-engagement\/the-great-disconnect-employee-trust\/\"><div class=\"lnrs-resource-hub-widget__resource_image\" style=\"background-image: url(https:\/\/cdn.brightmine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2026\/05\/12130710\/person-sitting-at-desk-with-laptop-and-covering-face.webp);\"><\/div><\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"lnrs-resource-hub-widget__inner_content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"content-top\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"lnrs-resource-hub-widget__categories\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"lnrs-resource-hub-widget__category_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"sync\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brightmine.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/lnrs-resources-filter\/assets\/images\/category-flag.svg\" alt=\"\" class=\"lnrs-resource-hub-widget__category_icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"lnrs-resource-hub-widget__category\">Blogs<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"title\" style=\"color: #00728B\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.brightmine.com\/uk\/resources\/talent-management\/employee-engagement\/the-great-disconnect-employee-trust\/\">The\u00a0Great Disconnect:\u00a0When workplace decisions erode employee trust<\/a><\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p style=\"color: #000000\">The Great Disconnect emerges when policy, reward and manager guidance send conflicting signals. Learn how this misalignment erodes &#8230;<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"lnrs-resource-hub-widget__resource\" style=\"background-color: #f3f2f0\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.brightmine.com\/uk\/resources\/talent-management\/employee-engagement\/employee-disengagement-at-work\/\"><div class=\"lnrs-resource-hub-widget__resource_image\" style=\"background-image: url(https:\/\/cdn.brightmine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/07\/09155114\/employee-burnout.webp);\"><\/div><\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"lnrs-resource-hub-widget__inner_content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"content-top\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"lnrs-resource-hub-widget__categories\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"lnrs-resource-hub-widget__category_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"sync\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brightmine.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/lnrs-resources-filter\/assets\/images\/category-flag.svg\" alt=\"\" class=\"lnrs-resource-hub-widget__category_icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"lnrs-resource-hub-widget__category\">Blogs<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"title\" style=\"color: #00728B\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.brightmine.com\/uk\/resources\/talent-management\/employee-engagement\/employee-disengagement-at-work\/\">Employee disengagement at work:\u00a0How HR can\u00a0push back against \u201cquiet quitting\u201d<\/a><\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p style=\"color: #000000\">Employee disengagement is often hard to spot until it starts affecting performance, morale and retention. This article looks &#8230;<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"lnrs-resource-hub-widget__resource\" style=\"background-color: #f3f2f0\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.brightmine.com\/uk\/resources\/talent-management\/employee-engagement\/volunteer-leave-policy\/\"><div class=\"lnrs-resource-hub-widget__resource_image\" style=\"background-image: url(https:\/\/cdn.brightmine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2026\/05\/12171529\/coworkers-working-on-laptops-in-modern-office.webp);\"><\/div><\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"lnrs-resource-hub-widget__inner_content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"content-top\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"lnrs-resource-hub-widget__categories\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"lnrs-resource-hub-widget__category_wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"sync\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brightmine.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/lnrs-resources-filter\/assets\/images\/category-flag.svg\" alt=\"\" class=\"lnrs-resource-hub-widget__category_icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"lnrs-resource-hub-widget__category\">Tools &amp; templates<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"title\" style=\"color: #00728B\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.brightmine.com\/uk\/resources\/talent-management\/employee-engagement\/volunteer-leave-policy\/\">Volunteer leave policy<\/a><\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p style=\"color: #000000\">Support employee volunteering with a volunteer leave policy that sets out who is eligible, how leave is managed &#8230;<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-bb56f56d wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-primary-white-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-79174043 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:25px;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-topics-on-this-page\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:500\">Topics on this page<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-7387b849 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n\n<div class=\"taxonomy-topic has-link-color wp-elements-5ec59eb01c09ec2f1d84a6b36973ff83 wp-block-post-terms\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.brightmine.com\/uk\/resources\/hr-compliance\/absence-management\/\" rel=\"tag\">Absence management<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-cararra-gray-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-cararra-gray-background-color has-background is-style-wide\"\/>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-about-the-author\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:500\">About the author<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-a903a136 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:100px\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized has-custom-border is-style-rounded\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"128\" height=\"128\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.brightmine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/12085308\/Brightmine_Favicon_128px.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-313\" style=\"border-radius:25px;object-fit:cover;width:100px;height:100px\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Brightmine<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With more than 10,000 customers, Brightmine is a leading global provider of people data, analytics and insight \u2013 empowering HR leaders to deliver brighter business outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For more than two decades, Brightmine, formerly XpertHR, has continued to help HR leaders confidently navigate the evolving world of work through our unique combination of critical workforce data, AI-enabled technology and trusted HR expertise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Brightmine is a division of LexisNexis Data Services within RELX\u00ae, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools. RELX serves customers in 180+ countries with 35,000+ employees. Ticker: London: REL; Amsterdam: REN; New York: RELX.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-primary-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-ad14550bb07010b79fc22eb0ca4e129e wp-block-paragraph\">Follow Brightmine on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/brightmine\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">LinkedIn<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Keeping a grip on employee absence is crucial to long-term business growth. We look at absence management and the best ways to maintain it.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":11,"featured_media":10427,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"wp-custom-template-new-resources","categories":[8],"tags":[],"topic":[30],"class_list":["post-10415","resources","type-resources","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blogs","topic-absence-management"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v28.3 (Yoast SEO v28.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Absence management: An HR manager\u2019s guide | Brightmine<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Keeping a grip on employee absence is crucial to long-term business growth. 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