The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) recently released a new analysis that sheds light on the growing issue of presenteeism in the UK workforce. Presenteeism, the act of working through sickness, has become a significant problem, with the cost increasing by £25 billion in the past year compared to 2018. This trend is concerning as it not only impacts individual productivity but also has wider implications for workplace culture and overall economic productivity.
According to the IPPR report, employees in the UK now lose an average of 44 days of productivity due to presenteeism, up from 35 days in 2018. This increase highlights the growing pressure on workers to show up for work even when they are unwell. In addition, the report reveals that staff are also taking more sick leave, with an average of 6.7 days lost to illness, up from 3.7 days in 2018.
One of the key findings of the report is that workers in the UK are among the least likely to take sick days compared to other OECD and European countries. This suggests a cultural norm of pushing through illness rather than prioritizing health and well-being. The costs of presenteeism, as cited by the IPPR, include decreased productivity, longer recovery times, poor decision-making, and the spread of illness to colleagues, known as „contagious presenteeism.
The report also highlights disparities in presenteeism among different demographic groups. Those with lower education levels, income, and minority ethnic backgrounds are more likely to work through sickness, indicating a need for targeted interventions to address these inequalities. The IPPR emphasizes that the cost of sickness is not inherent to individuals but is a result of societal and economic structures, including workplace practices and attitudes.
As the UK’s working-age population increasingly grapples with long-term health conditions, the importance of creating supportive and inclusive workplaces becomes more critical. Employers must recognize the impact of presenteeism on employee well-being and productivity and take steps to promote a healthier work environment. Dr. Jamie O’Halloran, a senior research fellow at the IPPR, emphasizes the need for a change in approach to ensure that work is beneficial for health and that employees have the support they need to recover when necessary.
Ken Butler, DR UK’s Welfare Rights and Policy Adviser, points out the systemic barriers that contribute to the disability employment gap and the challenges faced by disabled individuals in the workforce. He highlights the importance of employers implementing reasonable adjustments to make workplaces accessible and calls for greater accountability in ensuring equal opportunities for all employees.
In conclusion, the IPPR report underscores the urgent need for employers to address the issue of presenteeism and create healthier, more inclusive workplaces. By prioritizing employee well-being and implementing supportive policies and practices, businesses can not only improve productivity but also contribute to the overall health and prosperity of the economy. The findings of the report serve as a call to action for employers, policymakers, and society as a whole to prioritize the health and well-being of workers in order to create a more sustainable and prosperous future.