Short-Term absences
Absence that is categorised as ‘short-term’ are normally one or two days where staff members provide sickness as the reason and / or persistent intermittent absence (i.e. taking one or two weeks off work on a regular basis for unrelated health reasons), - this is then monitored with the Bradford Factor as a guide (see below)
Bradford Factor
The Bradford Factor is an absence data analysis tool which will assist line managers in identifying where there might be attendance issues which require consideration. The Bradford factor is based on a formula which produces a 'score' based on the number of times an employee is absent from work and the total number of working days lost as a result. The tool enables managers to identify where potential health issues might exist with a view to ensuring that appropriate and timely interventions can be made. Once the number of working days missed is entered into the staff database the Bradford Factor score is automatically worked out.
Bradford Factor Formula is (S x S) x D
S = Number of absences in 12-month period
D = Total number of days absent in the 12-month period
However, the Bradford factor should be seen as an indicator and not as the only tool. When targets are set, if an employee has a particular condition or disability, then targets can be adjusted to what is deemed to be acceptable whilst still being able to do their job. The way that this is monitored beyond an attendance review is within performance management process. We can choose to extend targets etc. if we deem appropriate, in conversation with SLT Lead and People and Culture Team.
The table below (and saved PDF) give an overview of actions and next steps. More Guidance regarding attendance review meetings can be found here. (INSERT LINK)