Types of absence
Absence can take a few different forms, based on things like duration and the reason for the absence.
Let’s take a look at the main types of employee absence that occur
This kind of absence is likely to last less than seven days and so a fit note won’t be needed. Common short-term illnesses include:
Colds and flu
Upset stomachs
Headaches and migraines
This will be classed as authorised absence because the employee will call in sick and – where they have leave still available – take some time off, get some much-needed rest, and get better.
You can watch our webinar on how to manage sickness absence here.
A fit note is provided by doctors to show an individual ‘may be fit for work’ or ‘not fit for work’. Generally, they’re provided when an employee has been absent from work for more than seven days.
This is when someone doesn’t come to work and gives no reason for their absence or doesn’t contact their employer.
Other terms people use include: ‘AWOL’ or ‘absent without leave’
This is usually defined as a period of continuous absence of more than four weeks. This sort of absence may be due to:
This will also be authorised absence because you’ll be notified of this time off and why the employee isn’t at work.
This is where the employee may feel fine but due to things like family commitments, they can’t come to work.
For instance, parents with sick children may need to stay at home to look after them. Employees with aging parents may have the same needs.
