HR Software: Transforming Sickness Absence Management Through Data

Why is HR software important to your business?

Long-term sickness is a significant concern in the United Kingdom, impacting individuals, families, and the nation’s economy.  Effective management can be driven by effective HR information systems that provide employers clear data across the workforce of sickness absence.

The occupational health report was a tool devised in the 1970’s and now there are serious questions being raised about whether this tool is fit for purpose in a modern workforce. The government’s recent recommendation for easier access to occupational health services has come under fire as being outdated and not helpful in identifying ways to prevent and address sickness early on in the workplace.

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), long-term sickness is defined as an illness or health condition that has lasted, or is expected to last, for a year or more. In the UK, as of the latest available data in 2020, approximately 2.4 million people reported experiencing long-term sickness. This figure represents 3.9% of the population aged 16 to 64.

Long-term sickness affects different demographic groups in the UK. There is a gender disparity, with women being more likely to report long-term sickness than men. In 2020, 4.5% of women were affected, compared to 3.3% of men.

Age also plays a crucial role in long-term sickness statistics. Unsurprisingly, the prevalence of long-term sickness increases with age. The age group most affected is those between 50 and 64 years old, with 10.1% reporting long-term sickness in 2020. This underscores the importance of considering the aging population when addressing this issue.

Causes of Long-Term Sickness

Several factors contribute to long-term sickness in the UK, including:

1. Chronic Illness

Conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis are common causes of long-term sickness. These illnesses require ongoing medical management and can significantly impact a person’s ability to work.

2. Mental Health

Mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, are a growing concern. They often lead to prolonged periods of sickness and are closely linked to workplace stress and other socio-economic factors.

3. Injuries

Accidents and injuries can result in long-term physical disabilities that prevent individuals from engaging in gainful employment.

4. Lifestyle Factors

Unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor diet, contribute to long-term health issues.

Improving access to occupational health services alone will not solve the UK’s long-term sickness crisis. Employers need a better grasp of what their people data tells them,

Effective human resource management involves addressing various aspects of employee well-being, including managing sickness absence. In this digital age, HR professionals have a powerful tool in data such as a comprehensive HR software solution.

Many HRIS systems are cloud-based HR software designed to simplify HR tasks, here at Real Employment Law Advice we have partnered with Breathe HR to provide clients with a system that can assist them in managing sickness absence through data.

The software overall can improve employee engagement and empower data-driven decision-making. One of its standout features is its ability to manage sickness absence efficiently.

How does Breathe HR software help with efficient sickness management?

Central Data Management

Breathe acts as a centralized repository for all HR-related information, including employee records, attendance data, and leave requests. This enables HR teams to access real-time data on employee absences instantly.

Sickness Recording

Breathe allows HR professionals and employees to record sickness-related information easily. This includes the nature of illness, anticipated return dates, and any relevant medical documentation.

Compliance Tracking

The software helps ensure compliance with legal requirements and company policies by tracking and managing statutory sick pay (SSP) and other leave entitlements.

Absence Reporting

Breathe generates detailed absence reports, enabling HR managers to identify trends and patterns related to sickness absence within the organization. This data is crucial for making informed decisions and implementing preventive measures.

Data Analytics

Breathe provides valuable insights through data analytics. By analysing historical absence data, HR teams can uncover patterns and identify areas for improvement. For instance, they may discover a recurring issue within a specific department and take proactive measures to address it.

Integration

Breathe can integrate with other HR tools, such as payroll and performance management software, creating a seamless ecosystem that enhances overall HR efficiency.

Breathe HR software offers a powerful solution for managing sickness absence through data-driven insights. It removes blind spots of what is going on int he workplace, identifies patterns early on and allows a targeted response to any data relating to sickness.

To conclude

By centralising data, automating processes, and providing analytics tools, Breathe empowers HR professionals to take proactive steps in reducing absenteeism, enhancing employee well-being, and ultimately contributing to a healthier and more productive workplace.

In an era where data is king, HR software reigns as an indispensable tool for modern HR management.

If you would like to know more how an intelligent HRIS system that could assist you in the workplace please contact us for more details.