Whilst some level of sickness absence is unavoidable, absence can be reduced by changing the aspects of work that cause ill health and by proactively managing absence. 

This guide brings together guidance and advice from professional bodies who provide practical advice on managing absence and examples of good practice into one place. 

Managing absence is everyone’s responsibility. This guide is designed to support:

• Elected members/non-executive members
• Executive management teams
• Scrutiny committees
• HR functions
• Line managers
• Employees
• Occupational health advisors