1 in 8 Workers Hospitalised Before Calling in Sick

More than one in eight (13%) workers would have to be hospitalised and have no other choice before calling in sick, according to Canada Life Group Insurance.

High Levels of Presenteeism in the UK Workforce

The researchers found that almost nine in 10 UK workers (89%) have come into work while sick, with nearly a third (32%) saying their workload is too great for them to take time off for illness. Around a fifth (21%) worry about the financial implications of calling in sick and 13% didn’t feel secure enough in their job to take time off. More than one in 10 (13%) said colleagues and senior members of staff make them feel guilty for taking time off when unwell.

To learn more about managing presenteeism and sick leave management, visit our detailed guide on workplace health policies.

Illness Transmission and Reluctance to Take Leave

Nearly three-quarters (71%) of employees said they became ill after another colleague came into work when unwell, with 14% experiencing this at work ‘all the time’.

The survey also found 36% would not take time off if they had a stomach virus, even when experiencing sickness and diarrhoea. Almost half (49%) would not take time off if they had the flu.

Expert Insights on Reducing Presenteeism

Paul Avis, Marketing Director at Canada Life Group, warned that presenteeism shows no sign of letting up. “At a time when recruitment and retention are increasingly crucial, ensuring employees feel valued and secure is vital. Employers should have a clear sickness absence system in place to assure staff they will not be penalised or face recrimination for taking time off when genuinely unwell.”

He added: “Particularly concerning is the low value employees place on mental illnesses, with far too many coming into work while suffering. Recent research found the number of workers seeking help for depression has risen by 40% in the last year, highlighting the need to recognise mental health as a critical workplace issue.”

Building Supportive Networks for Ill Health

Kate Nash, founder of Purple Space and Kate Nash Associates, told HR Magazine that company networks can foster a better attitude toward ill health.

“Networks foster the sharing of good practice about managing ill health and disability while at work,” she said. “With a growing culture of presenteeism, it’s more difficult than ever to take time out when you genuinely need it for sickness, treatment, or rehabilitation. Being part of an employee network helps build confidence to request the adjustments you need, including time off when ill.”

Explore strategies for improving employee well-being networks and reducing presenteeism.