Case study 7: Managing absence
The manager was looking for advice on how to treat the employee due to periods of absence. The employee claimed that all his absences were related to his condition and the Disability Discrimination Act covered him. At the date of opening the case, the employee was "off sick".
How Minty & Friend helped
- Minty & Friend examined the sickness absence reasons.
- Minty & Friend gave the manager guidance as to whether the employee was likely to be covered by the DDA and went through the implications to the manager and the client.
- Minty & Friend gave guidance to the manager on what could be seen as disability related absence and what was not.
- Minty & Friend gave guidance on practical ways to reduce potential workplace risks with the intention of reducing absences.
- The employee initially returned to work further to Minty & Friend's involvement and recommendations. However, later on, further absences led to his dismissal.
- The manager felt that the information given by Minty & Friend enabled him to make an informed decision, bearing in mind duties under the Health & Safety at Work Act and the DDA.
Benefits to the client
Management time saved through appropriate dismissal.
Added value
- Confidence that the manager could manage a complex situation.
- Reduced risk of litigation under DDA and Health and Safety at Work Act.
- Benefit to workplace morale showing that unproductive staff will be dealt with fairly.
