Partner Article

'Job satisfaction' bigger cause of absence

Psychological and sociological issues are bigger contributors to public-sector absence than diet and fitness, according to PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC). Research from PwC shows no significant difference in the diet and exercise habits between staff with high and low levels of absence - but it did draw links between the number of days off work for hospital visits and employees’ sense of belonging in an organisation and satisfaction with their lifestyles.

But the survey of four local authorities found little correlation between mental health related-absence and work intensity or relationships with managers. Social habits and sleeping difficulties, however, were linked to absence.

Of staff that had no absence in the past year, 61% exercised for more than half an hour three times a week and 70% were satisfied their manager gives them regular constructive feedback.

Ian Lithgow, director in human resource services at PWC in Newcastle, said: “The Government’s public health campaigns have had a heavy focus on people’s eating and exercise habits but this research suggests there should be more focus on sociological, psychological and organisational issues - failure to address these factors could result in spiralling health issues that are bad for business.

“The good news is, while the research shows the causes of ill health and absences are complex, there are some real opportunities to reduce costs and disruption to services through early, preventative action in addition to the more usual ‘reactive’ solutions.

“For example, team size and the number of years an employee has performed the role, together with quality of leadership and feedback, have all been associated with musculoskeletal absences, which can cost an average-sized council £2.5 million in annual salary costs alone. Action by organisations in these areas could have a significant impact on services and the bottom line.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .