High Levels of Sickness Absence? On Yer Bike!
Recent research into sickness absence found that direct costs of sickness absence, including statutory sick pay, cost of replacement staff and loss of output was estimated to generate a bill of £11.6 billion for the UK economy every year. The report also highlighted that the North West has the highest sickness absence rates of any other area in the UK. So what can employers do?
It’s been said that “If being active were a pill we would be rushing to prescribe it!” Indeed, if exercise were a pill we would not be able to manufacture it fast enough! A remedy that will boost your immune system, lower the risk of heart disease, cancer, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity and osteoporosis? If I told you the same pill will also boost brain power; improving concentration and productivity, reduce depression, improve feelings of well-being and improve endurance and strength, without any negative side effects (or cost!), who would not want a piece of that?!
Join the Merseytravel Employers Network and get free resources to encourage active travel as well as information on grant schemes for workplace improvements.
The Workplace Wellbeing Charter is now a nationally recognised award endorsed by Public Health England and a fantastic starting point for anyone wishing to improve workplace health. The City Council would like to see every business across Liverpool accredited with the Charter and are willing to fund 120 organisations to take part this year. If you would like to be one of them, give health@work a call 0151 236 6608.