The NHS has reported its lowest sickness absence rate in five years, marking a significant improvement across the healthcare sector.
- Sickness absence has decreased from 15.52 days per year in 2012/13 to 14.82 days per year in 2013/14, the Health and Social Care Information Centre (HSCIC) reveals.
- First responders in the ambulance service registered the highest average absence rate of 6.78%, while nurses and midwives reported only 1.1%.
- The North West of England recorded the highest regional sickness absence rate, contrasting with North Central and East London which had the lowest.
- An online tool designed to enhance absence management has played a part in reducing sick days, alongside dedicated efforts from management and staff.
The latest figures from the Health and Social Care Information Centre (HSCIC) show a promising decline in sickness absence rates within the NHS, marking the lowest level seen in five years. This decrease in absence has been noted from an annual average of 15.52 days in 2012/13 to 14.82 days in 2013/14, translating to a reduction from 4.24% to 4.06% in sickness absence rate year-on-year.
The data highlights that ambulance service employees experienced the highest percentage of sickness absences, with a striking average rate of 6.78% between January and March 2014. In contrast, nurses, midwives, and health-visiting learners experienced the lowest rates, with only 1.1%.
Regionally, the North West of England was reported to have the highest sickness absence rate at 4.6%, whereas, North Central and East London showcased a commendable low of 3.36%. This geographical disparity underlines regional challenges and operational differences within the NHS.
Despite this positive trend in absence reduction, it is important to contextualise these figures within the sector’s unique environment. Kingsley Manning, chair of HSCIC, noted that the NHS workforce operates under demanding physical and psychological conditions, which inevitably impacts health. These figures are not directly comparable with other UK sectors, where the average rate is 4.4 days per year per worker, as varying occupational hazards and work environments play a critical role.
The reduction in sick days is attributed to an innovative online tool aimed at improving absence management by offering step-by-step guidance for dealing with staff illnesses, containing practical advice and protocols for frequent health-related absences. Sue Covill, Director of Employment Services at NHS Employers, acknowledged the impact of this tool, reinforcing the view that ensuring staff feel supported significantly enhances their engagement and care quality. The NHS’s focus on effective absence management, even under challenging conditions, demonstrates its commitment to maintaining high standards of patient care.
The NHS continues to make strides in managing sickness absence, reflecting a robust commitment to optimising staff well-being and operational efficiency.
