Flexible work ‘cuts absence’

Aug 2 2007 by Paul Loraine, The Journal

EMPLOYERS are to be shown how to cut sickness absences among their staff by creating more flexible working environments.

The Fit for Life, Fit for Work, Fit for the Future conference, organised by business service provider EEF Northern, will team up bosses with health specialists in an attempt to tackle the region’s absence problem.

Figures released last month revealed that North-East workers take more sick days than their counterparts anywhere else in the country.

A report from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development showed that the average employee in the North-East is absent 11.3 days through sickness in a year.

But September’s conference, to be held at Durham County Cricket Club, will demonstrate methods of keeping staff motivated and healthy.

EEF Northern director Alan Hall said: “The workplace of the 21st Century is rapidly becoming radically different from the past as more employers appreciate the benefits of smarter working practices. This conference will demonstrate to employers and HR professionals the entire spectrum of ways in which to build a happier, healthier workforce. It will also highlight the productivity benefits to the business and social benefits to the employee.”

Among the speakers will be David Lennan, chairman of Work Wise UK, who heads the smarter working campaign which is calling for an end to the nine-to-five culture.

Mr Lennan said: “It is understandable that employers may be cautious about changing longstanding working practices. But the evidence is there from companies that have made the switch that this can have a substantial financial benefit.

“It also has a major impact on staff retention with a Department of Trade and Industry work-life balance survey in 2003 showing that 75% of companies introducing these work practices said they had a more committed and motivated workforce.”

Work Wise has highlighted how changes to working practices and improved use of technology can lead to healthier employees and increased productivity in the workplace.

Chairman of Work Wise North-East Simon Roberson said: “Work Wise is delighted to support EEF’s Fit for Life event and there is a great line-up of speakers. The health, wealth and happiness benefits brought about by flexible working are impossible for employers to overlook.”

Also speaking at the event will be Alan Hinkes, the first Briton to climb the world’s 14 mountains higher than 8,000m, and Dr Sayeed Khan, EEF’s chief medical adviser.

BT group medical officer Dr Paul Litchfield and the Government’s national director for health and work Prof Dame Carol Black will also offer advice at the conference, to take place on September 26.

For further information on the Fit for Life event contact Joanne Holborn on (0191) 416-5656 or to book a place contact Jackie Harris on (0191) 416-5656 email jackieharris@eefnorthern.org.uk or book online at www.eefnorthern.org.uk