Attendance & Sickness

The average days lost per employee has improved significantly when comparing the current and previous years. The data illustrated in the tables 8 and 9 below was extracted prior to the end of the current financial year, therefore the same three-quarter period has been used for comparative purposes.

An absence review group, chaired by an Assistant Chief Fire Officer, has undertaken scrutiny of absence figures on a quarterly basis. This has supported a greater understanding of underlying issues behind sickness absence and will continue into 2025-26 and beyond. A case management group also meets on a regular basis to take an overview of long-term sickness absence.

A priority for the next year will be to continue to seek a reduction in sickness absence levels, with the aim of meeting or improving on the national sector average, with an emphasis on prevention, early intervention and support.