Employers urged to manage absences as UK enjoys a summer of sport

A Sutton Coldfield HR firm has warned employers must carefully manage their approach to absences as the UK enjoys a summer of sport.

Thousands of fans are enjoying a much-needed break from the pandemic by watching their favourite sports stars participate in Euro 2020 and Wimbledon.

However, HR Caddy says employers need to carefully manage their approach to absences during these and other major sporting events this summer to encourage productivity and build goodwill with their workforce.

It is not uncommon for businesses to report a higher amount of staff sickness and other absences during major events but the HR specialists say that employers shouldn 't always jump to conclusions.

“Perhaps this year, more so than ever before, there is a real buzz about top sporting events like Wimbledon, Euro 2020 and the upcoming Olympics, ” said Nicola Callaghan (pictured), managing director of HR Caddy.

“Despite this, employers must not assume that every unexpected absence or poor productivity on the day of a big match is the result of an employee 'pulling a sickie ' or being distracted. ”

Nicola said that without clear evidence of this being the case employers could leave themselves open to a grievance or potentially even legal action from employees.

She added: “If there is a clear misuse of company time or there is a real drop off in performance then an employer is within their rights to bring this up with the person involved, as they are at any time, but they shouldn 't be too overreaching in the way that they monitor staff or be too quick to take action without the facts to back up any allegations. ”

HR Caddy said that instead of seeking to punish poor behaviour they should encourage staff to act appropriately by providing incentives and acting flexibly.

“In some cases, it might be something as easy as allowing staff to have a screening in the workplace or to put the radio on, where it is safe and legal to do so, ” said Nicola.

“Employers can also offer greater flexibility with working hours, asking staff to make up time, where they have asked to watch a particular game.

“Rather than trying to enforce tough rules, it can often be easier to discuss these issues with employees and find solutions that meet the needs of everyone - including offering similar breaks and allowances to those with no interest in sports. ”