Method of notification

Absence policies typically set out how absence can be reported and how it cannot (for example, by text messaging or emailing, although some employers allow this). They may also say who can report an absent employee, if an employee cannot do it for themselves.

Employers may also require a reason for the absence at the notification stage, and in some cases an estimate of how long the employee expects to be absent. Where an absence lasts more than a day or two, repeat notification is often required.

UNISON’s model sickness absence agreement suggests that managers will establish as early as possible whether unfitness to attend work falls within the following categories, which are not counted or recorded as sickness:

• disability related absence, including mental health problems;

• work related injury or illness;

• pregnancy-related absence;

• menopause related absence;

• caring for sick family and relatives;

• family and emotional probems;

• any pre-agreed periods of absence to receive medical treatment.