Presenteeism and the effects on company productivity

With the traditional working week of 9-5 a thing of the past, it seems to have been replaced with an ad-hoc working schedule, due to Covid-19 and homeworking. This in turn has seen an increase in a presenteeism culture within workforces, which is causing a significant loss in employee productivity and concentration. Stress, suboptimal mental health, lack of sleep and poor financial wellbeing are all root causes that have been exacerbated during the pandemic.

The cost of presenteeism in the workplace is rising. Prior to the pandemic, the effects of presenteeism was costing the UK economy £20bn this has now increased to £27bn. The CIPD has seen presenteeism tripling over the past ten years, but many employers are still not taking action to prevent it.

What is Employee Presenteeism?

Well, it’s got several definitions and is defined as:

• Being present whilst at work - but having underlying health conditions, thus not being fully functional.
• Working long hours - but not being present and leading employers to believe they are performing.
• Working at a decreased level - due to a range of social/economic distractions.

At UKIM Occupational Health and Wellbeing, we know the importance of supporting optimal mental health. Our occupational health case managers, mental health interventions and training programmes can help you to foster a healthy working environment.

Our approach to reducing presenteeism

We look at the physical, psychological and sociological factors that presenteeism has on your workforce - such as mental health issues, childcare issues, caring responsibilities and illness.

Our biopsychosocial model below demonstrates how, with our holistic approach, we set out a clearly defined pathway to prevent, assess and treat employees to ensure a fit, happy and productive workforce.

Our consultative approach means that you will receive a service entirely designed to support your business and employee wellbeing.