**Off Sick? You Need to Phone Your Boss, Says Back-to-Work Expert**
In a recent statement, Sir Charlie Mayfield, a government-appointed back-to-work expert, emphasized the importance of direct communication between employees and their employers during periods of sickness. Leading the "Keep Britain Working" taskforce, Sir Charlie advocates for phone conversations over mere email exchanges and sick notes, arguing that such interactions can facilitate a smoother transition back to work.
According to Sir Charlie's latest report, health-related economic inactivity is costing the UK approximately £212 million annually in benefit payments and lost productivity. He described phone communication as "one piece of the jigsaw" in addressing the issue of workplace absenteeism. The report also calls for enhanced workplace support for individuals with health conditions and disabilities, alongside the establishment of a Workplace Health System in conjunction with the National Health Service (NHS).
Sir Charlie highlighted that improving communication within the workplace can help "rehumanise" the environment, which may reduce the likelihood of employees disengaging from their jobs entirely. He noted that while he does not expect employees suffering from short-term illnesses, such as the flu, to engage in lengthy phone calls, the focus should be on addressing longer-term health issues.
During an interview with the BBC's Today Programme, Sir Charlie expressed concern over the current handling of workplace sickness in Britain. He stated that many employees experience prolonged periods of absence with little to no contact from their employers. "I've met so many people who have said to me, 'You know, I was signed off sick and I was off sick for a month, two months, three months, and I had almost no contact with my employer,'" he recounted.
The report reveals that approximately 300,000 individuals leave the workforce each year due to health conditions, many of which could be preventable. Sir Charlie pointed out that employees often hesitate to discuss long-term health issues with their employers, and employers, in turn, may fear causing offense or triggering complaints.
This mutual apprehension can create a barrier to communication, leading to misunderstandings and a lack of support. Sir Charlie warned that extended absences significantly increase the likelihood of workers exiting the labor force altogether. He stated, "If you can keep more people in work, there's a massive opportunity for us to add billions to the economy and, frankly, to people's livelihoods."
To achieve this goal, Sir Charlie stressed the necessity for both employers and employees to actively engage in managing sickness and health issues in the workplace. He suggested that employers should provide greater support, including access to treatments such as physiotherapy and talking therapies.
The report serves as a call to action for businesses to rethink their approach to employee health and well-being, promoting a culture of open dialogue and support. As the UK grapples with the economic implications of health-related absenteeism, Sir Charlie's recommendations aim to foster a more inclusive and communicative work environment, ultimately benefiting both employees and the economy at large.