How to write a compassionate, supportive, solidarity-based sickness policy

Practical guidance to help you write a compassionate, supportive and solidarity-based sickness policy. 

Section 1:

Introduction to sickness policies

How do we create workplaces that reflect our values and do not seek to exclude those with disabilities and health problems?

Section 2:

What does the law say?

The laws you need to be aware of when designing a legally-fair sickness policy, from the Equality Act to the Access to Medical Reports Act.  

Section 3:

What’s wrong with standard sickness policies?

Mainstream HR is very good at managing people out of their jobs if they become too unwell to do them. We consider how progressive organisations can do things differently.

Section 4:

What to include in a sickness policy

An overview of the main elements that need to be included in a sickness policy.

• Absence procedure: How to create a suitable procedure that meets collective and individual needs.
• Medical evidence: Understanding the role of Fit Notes, AHP Reports, Occupational Health and other medical reports.
• Sick pay: From contractual sick pay to SSP.
• Absence: How to support people through long term or frequent short term sickness absence.
• Formal procedure: What needs to be included in a legally-fair capability procedure.