02 May 2014
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Two-thirds of workers have gone to work when sick, highlighting the issue of ‘presenteeism', AXA PPP Healthcare has revealed.
The insurer's poll of 2,000 employees found they went to work when ill due to a heavy workload (21%), feeling ‘guilty' (18%), pressure from boss or colleagues (14%) and fear of job security (18%).
Dr Steve IIey, medical director, occupational health at AXA PPP Healthcare said it was "concerning" that people were going into work ill and employers should make a "considered effort" to communicate to employees when it would be fine to take time off sick.
Additionally, the research found a fifth (21%) went to work when sick because they weren't sure if they were ill enough to "justify taking the time off."
Meanwhile, 3% of respondents who went into work when sick said that their managers had refused to let them go home early. This figure rose to 12% for London-based employees.
IIey added: "To manage performance more effectively, employers should include management of sickness presenteeism as part of a good absence policy - one that advises employees what to do when they're sick, whom they should contact and where to seek suitable advice if necessary (for example, from support services such as a health information helpline, if available).
"Employers should also ensure that managers are properly trained and supported to implement the policy. This sort of approach should be an integral part of a health and wellbeing strategy and will, in turn, help to create a positive workplace culture where employees are properly supported to do their best."
