{"id":42412,"date":"2025-09-15T05:16:14","date_gmt":"2025-09-15T05:16:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/?post_type=resources&#038;p=42412"},"modified":"2025-10-03T01:21:19","modified_gmt":"2025-10-03T01:21:19","slug":"sickness-absence-policy","status":"publish","type":"resources","link":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/resources\/sickness-absence-policy\/","title":{"rendered":"Sickness Absence Policy Template"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull resource-sticky-downloadable-template has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull blog-template-header has-light-violet-50-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\"><div style=\"--bb--crumb-gap:.4em;\" 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<\/span>\n            <span class=\"eh-social-sharing-button__copied_text\">\n            URL copied for sharing!        <\/span>\n    <\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group post-title-mobile has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-6 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\"><h2 class=\"blog-template-title wp-block-post-title\">Sickness Absence Policy Template<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-5 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<p class=\"has-sm-font-size\">Published<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-date has-sm-font-size\"><time datetime=\"2025-09-15T05:16:14+00:00\">15 Sep 2025<\/time><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns content-flex is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-1 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:55%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group sticky-downloadable-title has-light-violet-50-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-10 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--24)\"><h1 class=\"blog-template-title wp-block-post-title\">Sickness Absence Policy Template<\/h1>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-9 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-12 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--6);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--24)\">\n<div class=\"content-single-table-content\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"content-wrapper\" class=\"wp-block-group has-link-color wp-elements-0b893ecce716585509e3bd852d09fbb1 has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-11 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">Managing sickness absence is one of the most important responsibilities for HR professionals, SME owners and line managers. Without clear processes, it\u2019s easy for absence to spiral into a bigger issue, creating unfairness, legal risk and disengagement in the workplace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">Which is why a clear sickness absence policy is a must for every business. Here, we\u2019ve designed a template for HR professionals, SME owners and line managers who need a simple and compliant framework to handle sickness absence fairly and effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is a sickness absence policy?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">A sickness absence policy is a formal document that sets out how your organisation manages staff sickness. It explains what employees should do if they are unwell and unable to work and what managers are expected to do in response.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">The purpose of a sickness absence policy is to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-checkmark\">\n<li class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">Provide consistency and fairness when handling absence.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">Reduce avoidable absenteeism.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">Protect the business from legal risk.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">Support employee wellbeing.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">In short, it gives everyone clarity about how sickness absence will be handled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why your business needs one<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">Without a sickness absence policy, absence can quickly become inconsistent. One employee might be required to show a fit note immediately, while another might not be asked for medical evidence at all. These inconsistencies can create perceptions of unfair treatment and damage team morale.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">There are also legal risks. UK employers are required to handle absence in line with employment law and ACAS best practice. If absence is managed informally or without records, your business may face disputes, claims of unfair treatment or difficulties in dismissal cases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">For employees, not knowing what to expect can cause anxiety about taking time off when they are genuinely unwell. For employers, a lack of structure makes it harder to monitor patterns of absence and spot potential issues such as recurring short-term sickness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">A clear absence policy protects both sides by ensuring fairness, consistency and transparency. It also supports wider <a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/blog\/employee-absenteeism\/\">staff absence management<\/a> efforts by helping managers address absenteeism early and appropriately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What&#8217;s included in this sickness absence policy template?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">This downloadable template covers all the core areas of absence management. Inside you\u2019ll find:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-checkmark\">\n<li class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\"><strong>Reporting sickness procedures<\/strong>: Clear steps employees must follow to notify their manager.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\"><strong>Fit note requirements<\/strong>: When and how medical certification is needed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\"><strong>Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) guidance<\/strong>: A top-level overview of employee entitlements.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\"><strong>Return-to-work interviews<\/strong>: A structured way to support staff coming back after absence.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\"><strong>Manager responsibilities<\/strong>: Ensuring line managers know how to apply the policy consistently.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">This template has been written in line with ACAS guidance and UK employment law, giving you confidence that it meets compliance standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">You may also find our <a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/resources\/return-to-work-meeting-template\/\">return to work interview template<\/a> useful for building a structured absence management process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Who should use this template?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">This sickness absence policy template is designed for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-checkmark\">\n<li class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">SMEs, startups and growing businesses that don\u2019t yet have an in-house HR team.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">HR managers looking for a compliant framework to introduce across their organisation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">Line managers who need guidance on handling absence consistently.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">It\u2019s a practical tool for any business that wants to manage sickness absence fairly, clearly and in line with legal requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to customise this template for your company<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">Every business operates differently, which is why this template is fully editable. Customisation ensures the policy feels relevant and practical to your workforce.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">When tailoring it to your company, consider:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">\n<li class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\"><strong>Internal reporting structures<\/strong>: Does absence need to be reported to HR directly or only to line managers?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\"><strong>Remote or hybrid working teams<\/strong>: Should employees notify their manager by phone, email or instant messaging when working from home?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\"><strong>Sector-specific requirements<\/strong>: For example, healthcare or education roles may need stricter return-to-work assessments.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\"><strong>Employee wellbeing policies<\/strong>: You may want to link your absence policy to wider support services such as Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">By adapting the template to reflect your internal processes, you ensure that the absence management policy feels practical, supportive and consistent with your company culture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When to review or update your absence policy<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">Your absence policy should be reviewed regularly to keep it compliant and effective. We recommend updating it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">After any change in UK employment law, particularly around sick pay or fit notes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">When your business grows or restructures, as reporting lines and responsibilities may change<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">If you notice a rise in staff absences or patterns of short-term sickness that require closer monitoring<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">When employee feedback suggests the policy is unclear or difficult to follow<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">As part of an annual HR policy review to ensure all documents remain relevant<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">Regular reviews make sure the policy supports both legal compliance and effective <a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/blog\/employee-absenteeism\/\">employee absenteeism<\/a> management.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\"><strong>Download your free sickness absence policy template today.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">A clear absence policy helps protect your business, reduce absenteeism and support employee wellbeing. Download your free sickness absence policy template today and give your business the structure it needs to manage sickness absence consistently and fairly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-employmentherocom2025-faq eh-faq eh-faq__bg-light\"><div class=\"eh-faq__container\"><div class=\"eh-faq__header\"><h2 class=\"eh-faq__title\">FAQs about absence and sickness policies<\/h2><p class=\"eh-faq__subtitle\"><\/p><\/div><div class=\"eh-faq__content\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-employmentherocom2025-simple-accordion eh-simple-accordion\"><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"accordion-1757909815967\" class=\"eh-simple-accordion__checkbox\"\/><label for=\"accordion-1757909815967\" class=\"eh-simple-accordion__header\"><h3 class=\"eh-simple-accordion__title\">Is a sickness policy legally required in the UK?<\/h3><span class=\"eh-simple-accordion__icon\"><svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M10.3966 3.60341C10.3966 2.71788 11.1145 2 12 2C12.8855 2 13.6034 2.71788 13.6034 3.60341V10.3966H20.3966C21.2822 10.3966 22 11.1145 22 12C22 12.8856 21.2822 13.6034 20.3966 13.6034H13.6034V20.3966C13.6034 21.2822 12.8855 22 12 22C11.1145 22 10.3966 21.2822 10.3966 20.3966V13.6034H3.6034C2.71786 13.6034 2 12.8856 2 12C2 11.1145 2.71786 10.3966 3.6034 10.3966H10.3966V3.60341Z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/label><div class=\"eh-simple-accordion__content\"><div class=\"eh-simple-accordion__inner\">\n<p>There is no strict legal requirement to have a written sickness absence policy. However, employers must comply with employment law and apply fair processes when managing absence. A written policy is the most reliable way to achieve this.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-employmentherocom2025-simple-accordion eh-simple-accordion\"><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"accordion-1757909815974\" class=\"eh-simple-accordion__checkbox\"\/><label for=\"accordion-1757909815974\" class=\"eh-simple-accordion__header\"><h3 class=\"eh-simple-accordion__title\">What should a sickness absence policy include?<\/h3><span class=\"eh-simple-accordion__icon\"><svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M10.3966 3.60341C10.3966 2.71788 11.1145 2 12 2C12.8855 2 13.6034 2.71788 13.6034 3.60341V10.3966H20.3966C21.2822 10.3966 22 11.1145 22 12C22 12.8856 21.2822 13.6034 20.3966 13.6034H13.6034V20.3966C13.6034 21.2822 12.8855 22 12 22C11.1145 22 10.3966 21.2822 10.3966 20.3966V13.6034H3.6034C2.71786 13.6034 2 12.8856 2 12C2 11.1145 2.71786 10.3966 3.6034 10.3966H10.3966V3.60341Z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/label><div class=\"eh-simple-accordion__content\"><div class=\"eh-simple-accordion__inner\">\n<p>A strong policy should cover reporting procedures, fit note requirements, pay entitlements such as SSP, return-to-work interviews, and manager responsibilities.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-employmentherocom2025-simple-accordion eh-simple-accordion\"><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"accordion-1757909891838\" class=\"eh-simple-accordion__checkbox\"\/><label for=\"accordion-1757909891838\" class=\"eh-simple-accordion__header\"><h3 class=\"eh-simple-accordion__title\">How often should a company\u2019s absence policy be reviewed?<\/h3><span class=\"eh-simple-accordion__icon\"><svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M10.3966 3.60341C10.3966 2.71788 11.1145 2 12 2C12.8855 2 13.6034 2.71788 13.6034 3.60341V10.3966H20.3966C21.2822 10.3966 22 11.1145 22 12C22 12.8856 21.2822 13.6034 20.3966 13.6034H13.6034V20.3966C13.6034 21.2822 12.8855 22 12 22C11.1145 22 10.3966 21.2822 10.3966 20.3966V13.6034H3.6034C2.71786 13.6034 2 12.8856 2 12C2 11.1145 2.71786 10.3966 3.6034 10.3966H10.3966V3.60341Z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/label><div class=\"eh-simple-accordion__content\"><div class=\"eh-simple-accordion__inner\">\n<p>At least once a year, or whenever there is a legal change that affects sick pay or absence procedures. Reviews should also be carried out if your business grows or experiences a significant rise in absence levels.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-employmentherocom2025-simple-accordion eh-simple-accordion\"><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"accordion-1757909914106\" class=\"eh-simple-accordion__checkbox\"\/><label for=\"accordion-1757909914106\" class=\"eh-simple-accordion__header\"><h3 class=\"eh-simple-accordion__title\">What are the main differences between managing sickness absence and other types of absence?<\/h3><span class=\"eh-simple-accordion__icon\"><svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M10.3966 3.60341C10.3966 2.71788 11.1145 2 12 2C12.8855 2 13.6034 2.71788 13.6034 3.60341V10.3966H20.3966C21.2822 10.3966 22 11.1145 22 12C22 12.8856 21.2822 13.6034 20.3966 13.6034H13.6034V20.3966C13.6034 21.2822 12.8855 22 12 22C11.1145 22 10.3966 21.2822 10.3966 20.3966V13.6034H3.6034C2.71786 13.6034 2 12.8856 2 12C2 11.1145 2.71786 10.3966 3.6034 10.3966H10.3966V3.60341Z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/label><div class=\"eh-simple-accordion__content\"><div class=\"eh-simple-accordion__inner\">\n<p>Sickness absence is linked to health and medical conditions, which means it often requires fit notes, medical evidence and return-to-work support. Other types of absence, such as holiday, parental leave or unauthorised absence, have their own processes and should be managed separately, often under a wider absenteeism policy.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\n    \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\/\",\n    \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\n    \"mainEntity\": [\n        {\n            \"@type\": \"Question\",\n            \"name\": \"Is a sickness policy legally required in the UK?\",\n            \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n                \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n                \"text\": \"<p>There is no strict legal requirement to have a written sickness absence policy. However, employers must comply with employment law and apply fair processes when managing absence. 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now&quot;,&quot;success_handling_method&quot;:&quot;thank_you_page&quot;,&quot;redirect_url&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;thank_you_message&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;add_lead_linking_id&quot;:false,&quot;add_drift_campaign_id&quot;:false,&quot;drift_campaign_id&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;thank_you_page_id&quot;:&quot;32313&quot;,&quot;thank_you_page_url&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/thank-you\/downloadable\/resources\/?origin=sickness-absence-policy&amp;origin_id=KqHNEPAsztfhlCsZ%2B68bqP1JFvboHomXsj81S2kHpbL9%2FYZoUks9EtzJpXqkFwD8qYoh0VL%2FcBxNsaZTngL88g%3D%3D&quot;,&quot;progress_indicator_type&quot;:&quot;progress-bar&quot;,&quot;enable_revenue_hero&quot;:false,&quot;revenue_hero_router_id&quot;:&quot;4668&quot;,&quot;revenue_hero_thank_you_message&quot;:&quot;Thank you for booking!&quot;}\"><\/div>\n                                <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group social-icons-desktop is-content-justification-center is-nowrap is-layout-flex 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<path d=\"M7.78481199,8.39527139 L6.54864687,9.91484383 C5.73222439,10.9339336 4.27946967,11.1129128 3.25127068,10.3214088 C2.2300908,9.49612727 2.05361038,7.97696676 2.85719793,6.92821874 C2.87083505,6.91050619 2.88447217,6.89299959 2.89851039,6.87569896 L5.82387388,3.27984437 L5.84553284,3.25492322 C5.99915102,3.07203079 6.17924127,2.91447144 6.37938611,2.78739415 C7.23972815,2.23645131 8.34754387,2.31595185 9.12506044,2.98449782 C9.2157072,3.06235067 9.30073868,3.14700021 9.37915214,3.23782854 C9.60657122,3.50207514 9.93486491,3.6513961 10.2784001,3.64665902 C10.6175233,3.64171598 10.9377951,3.48498047 11.155588,3.21764447 L11.1696262,3.20034383 C11.5426416,2.74620216 11.5342187,2.07930388 11.1497722,1.63546021 C9.42768425,-0.367088286 6.45118155,-0.55698335 4.50107292,1.21159465 C4.32298813,1.37306725 4.15713665,1.54813319 4.00472174,1.73555674 L1.08738009,5.32173121 C-0.548874157,7.35084854 -0.312430505,10.3492133 1.62043117,12.0813364 C2.56821124,12.921447 3.80678291,13.3317192 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is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-content-justification-space-between is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-16 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Related Resources<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-link-arrow is-style-link-arrow--3\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-btn-brand-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"\/resources\/\">View all<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-query blog-3-col-query-loop is-layout-flow wp-block-query-is-layout-flow\"><ul class=\"columns-3 alignfull wp-block-post-template is-layout-grid wp-container-core-post-template-is-layout-1 wp-block-post-template-is-layout-grid\"><li class=\"wp-block-post post-42269 resources type-resources status-publish has-post-thumbnail hentry\">\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-border-color has-neutral-100-border-color has-white-background-color has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-19 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"border-width:1px;min-height:100%\"><figure style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;width:100%;height:100%; padding-bottom:0;padding-top:0;margin-bottom:0;\" class=\"wp-block-post-featured-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/resources\/grievance-and-dispute-procedure\/\" target=\"_self\"  style=\"height:100%\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"626\" height=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/09\/UK_Grievance-Policy-and-Procedure-Template.png\" class=\"attachment-post-thumbnail size-post-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"Grievance and dispute procedures\" style=\"width:100%;height:100%;object-fit:cover;\" srcset=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/09\/UK_Grievance-Policy-and-Procedure-Template.png 626w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/09\/UK_Grievance-Policy-and-Procedure-Template-247x300.png 247w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/09\/UK_Grievance-Policy-and-Procedure-Template-321x390.png 321w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 626px) 100vw, 626px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group blog-3-col-details wp-container-content-3 is-vertical is-content-justification-left is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-18 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:0;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-17 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-post-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/resources\/grievance-and-dispute-procedure\/\" target=\"_self\" >Grievance and dispute procedures<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt has-text-color has-contrast-2-color has-small-font-size wp-container-content-2\"><p class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__excerpt\">Learn how to handle employee grievances and workplace disputes fairly and legally. Follow a clear grievance procedure aligned with ACAS&hellip; <\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<a style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600;\" class=\"wp-elements-9dfcbcb7662772ecb2d671e8976a6c51 wp-block-read-more has-text-color has-violet-500-color\" href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/resources\/grievance-and-dispute-procedure\/\" target=\"_self\">Read more<span class=\"screen-reader-text\">: Grievance and dispute procedures<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/resources\/grievance-and-dispute-procedure\/\" target=\"_self\" class=\"group-block-link\"><\/a>\n<\/li><li class=\"wp-block-post post-42037 resources type-resources status-publish has-post-thumbnail hentry resource-type-checklists\">\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-border-color has-neutral-100-border-color has-white-background-color has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-22 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"border-width:1px;min-height:100%\"><figure style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;width:100%;height:100%; padding-bottom:0;padding-top:0;margin-bottom:0;\" class=\"wp-block-post-featured-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/resources\/disciplinary-procedures\/\" target=\"_self\"  style=\"height:100%\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"626\" height=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/09\/UK_Disciplinary-Procedure-Template.webp\" class=\"attachment-post-thumbnail size-post-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"Creating disciplinary procedures in the workplace\" style=\"width:100%;height:100%;object-fit:cover;\" srcset=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/09\/UK_Disciplinary-Procedure-Template.webp 626w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/09\/UK_Disciplinary-Procedure-Template-247x300.webp 247w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/09\/UK_Disciplinary-Procedure-Template-321x390.webp 321w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 626px) 100vw, 626px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group blog-3-col-details wp-container-content-6 is-vertical is-content-justification-left is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-21 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:0;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-20 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\"><div style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600\" class=\"taxonomy-resource-type eh-resource-type wp-block-post-terms\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-block-post-terms-icon\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" alt=\"icon-blog\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/02\/Blog.png\"><a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/resources\/checklists\/\" rel=\"tag\">Checklists<\/a><\/div>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-post-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/resources\/disciplinary-procedures\/\" target=\"_self\" >Creating disciplinary procedures in the workplace<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt has-text-color has-contrast-2-color has-small-font-size wp-container-content-5\"><p class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__excerpt\">A step-by-step guide to creating fair &#038; compliant workplace disciplinary procedures. Learn how to manage misconduct &#038; underperformance with confidence. <\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<a style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600;\" class=\"wp-elements-9dfcbcb7662772ecb2d671e8976a6c51 wp-block-read-more has-text-color has-violet-500-color\" href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/resources\/disciplinary-procedures\/\" target=\"_self\">Read more<span class=\"screen-reader-text\">: Creating disciplinary procedures in the workplace<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/resources\/disciplinary-procedures\/\" target=\"_self\" class=\"group-block-link\"><\/a>\n<\/li><li class=\"wp-block-post post-14791 resources type-resources status-publish has-post-thumbnail hentry resource-type-templates topic-leadership-and-management industry-agriculture industry-automotive industry-business-consulting industry-childcare industry-colleges-and-sporting-clubs industry-construction industry-consumer-services industry-customer-service industry-early-education industry-ecommerce industry-education industry-entertainment industry-finance industry-financial-services industry-franchises industry-health-and-fitness industry-health-services industry-healthcare industry-hospitality industry-it-and-technology industry-legal industry-logistics-manufacturing industry-media-communications industry-not-for-profit industry-professional-services industry-public-relations industry-real-estate industry-real-estate-and-strata-management industry-recruitment industry-retail industry-stem industry-technology industry-utilities-public-services industry-veterinary-services industry-youth-services\">\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-border-color has-neutral-100-border-color has-white-background-color has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-25 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"border-width:1px;min-height:100%\"><figure style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;width:100%;height:100%; padding-bottom:0;padding-top:0;margin-bottom:0;\" class=\"wp-block-post-featured-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/resources\/encouraging-staff-annual-leave\/\" target=\"_self\"  style=\"height:100%\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"626\" height=\"760\" src=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/04\/UK_Annual-Leave-Reminder-Email-Template.webp\" class=\"attachment-post-thumbnail size-post-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"Encouraging Staff To Take Annual Leave \u2013 Email Template\" style=\"width:100%;height:100%;object-fit:cover;\" srcset=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/04\/UK_Annual-Leave-Reminder-Email-Template.webp 626w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/04\/UK_Annual-Leave-Reminder-Email-Template-247x300.webp 247w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/04\/UK_Annual-Leave-Reminder-Email-Template-321x390.webp 321w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 626px) 100vw, 626px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group blog-3-col-details wp-container-content-9 is-vertical is-content-justification-left is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-24 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:0;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-23 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\"><div style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600\" class=\"taxonomy-resource-type eh-resource-type wp-block-post-terms\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-block-post-terms-icon\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" alt=\"icon-blog\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/02\/Blog.png\"><a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/resources\/templates\/\" rel=\"tag\">Templates<\/a><\/div>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-post-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/resources\/encouraging-staff-annual-leave\/\" target=\"_self\" >Encouraging Staff To Take Annual Leave \u2013 Email Template<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt has-text-color has-contrast-2-color has-small-font-size wp-container-content-8\"><p class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__excerpt\">Help staff recharge, boost wellbeing, prevent burnout &#038; increase productivity. Download our free reminder email to help employees take needed&hellip; <\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<a style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600;\" class=\"wp-elements-9dfcbcb7662772ecb2d671e8976a6c51 wp-block-read-more has-text-color has-violet-500-color\" href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/resources\/encouraging-staff-annual-leave\/\" target=\"_self\">Read more<span class=\"screen-reader-text\">: Encouraging Staff To Take Annual Leave \u2013 Email Template<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/resources\/encouraging-staff-annual-leave\/\" target=\"_self\" class=\"group-block-link\"><\/a>\n<\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Published Managing sickness absence is one of the most important responsibilities for HR professionals, SME owners and line managers. Without clear processes, it\u2019s easy for absence to spiral into a bigger issue, creating unfairness, legal risk and disengagement in the workplace. Which is why a clear sickness absence policy is a must for every business. [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":42417,"menu_order":0,"template":"","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"_lite_auth_enabled":false,"_lite_auth_trigger_method":"scroll","_lite_auth_scroll_percent":25,"_lite_auth_click_element_query":"","exclude_from_algolia":false,"reading_time":"4 min read","display_reading_time":false,"registration_open_datetime":"","registration_close_datetime":"","event_start_datetime":"","event_end_datetime":"","time_zone":"","location":"","link_video":"","video_type":"","file_video":"","download_content_type":"file","download_file":"42418","download_url":"","download_cta_label":"","footnotes":""},"resource-type":[167],"topic":[],"industry":[],"search-tags":[],"audience":[],"business-size":[],"product-tag":[],"funnel-stage":[],"region":[],"pain-point":[],"persona":[],"post_features":[],"class_list":["post-42412","resources","type-resources","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","resource-type-templates"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/resources\/42412","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/resources"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/resources"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/resources\/42412\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":43566,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/resources\/42412\/revisions\/43566"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/42417"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=42412"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"resource-type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/resource-type?post=42412"},{"taxonomy":"topic","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/topic?post=42412"},{"taxonomy":"industry","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/industry?post=42412"},{"taxonomy":"search-tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/search-tags?post=42412"},{"taxonomy":"audience","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/audience?post=42412"},{"taxonomy":"business-size","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/business-size?post=42412"},{"taxonomy":"product-tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/product-tag?post=42412"},{"taxonomy":"funnel-stage","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/funnel-stage?post=42412"},{"taxonomy":"region","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/region?post=42412"},{"taxonomy":"pain-point","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pain-point?post=42412"},{"taxonomy":"persona","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/persona?post=42412"},{"taxonomy":"post_features","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/post_features?post=42412"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}