Workplace absence soars each year

Disturbing new research from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) reveals the sickeness record of UK employees is at the highest level seen in over a decade.

On average UK employees took 9.4 sick days in the last year, that’s almost two full working weeks.

This compares to 7.8 days in 2023 and just 5.8 days before the pandemic.

The findings, based on a survey of over 1,100 employers, highlight the urgent need for organisations to address workplace health more proactively, with mental ill health and long-term conditions driving a steep rise in absence.

Aston spoke to Rachel Suff, senior wellbeing advisor at Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD).

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