In a study conducted by MetLife UK, it has been uncovered that a staggering three in five UK employees have refrained from calling in sick when they truly needed to take time off work.
This revelation sheds light on the prevalent issue of presenteeism in the workplace, where employees opt to tough it out despite being unwell.
According to the research findings, a significant 59 percent of surveyed employees confessed to foregoing sick leave, even when their health demanded otherwise.
Among the reasons cited for this behaviour, more than a quarter (26%) expressed guilt over burdening their colleagues with extra work, while 28 percent admitted to avoiding sick leave altogether out of fear of missing work commitments.
Additionally, concerns about financial repercussions, worries about not being believed, and fear of reprimand from superiors were among the factors influencing their decision to soldier on through illness.
Recovery is the priority
Adrian Matthews, Head of Employee Benefits at MetLife UK, voiced concern over this pervasive trend, stating, “When sickness or injury strikes, resting to recover should be the first thought on individuals’ minds, but instead many feel anxious and worried, particularly when it comes to any implications on their workload.”
Matthews highlighted the evolving dynamics of the modern workplace, noting the rise of hybrid working models and the accompanying ‘always on’ culture, which blurs the boundaries between work and personal life. This continuous accessibility to work, coupled with the pressure to demonstrate commitment, often compels employees to prioritise presenteeism, potentially exacerbating their health issues and leading to burnout in the long run.
The emotional toll
Also, the research underscored the emotional toll experienced by employees grappling with the decision to take sick leave, with feelings of guilt, anxiety, and worry weighing heavily on their minds. Concerns about the workload awaiting their return, scepticism from colleagues or management, and financial insecurities further compound the dilemma faced by individuals considering sick leave.
In light of these findings, Matthews emphasised the importance of employers fostering a supportive environment that prioritises employee well-being. He advocated for the implementation of comprehensive employee benefits packages, including access to healthcare services, early intervention programs, and employee assistance initiatives, to ensure that individuals feel supported in taking the necessary time off to recover fully.
As the debate surrounding workplace culture and employee welfare continues, addressing the root causes of presenteeism and promoting a culture of health and well-being remain paramount for fostering a productive and sustainable workforce.
Amelia Brand is the Editor for HRreview, and host of the HR in Review podcast series. With a Master’s degree in Legal and Political Theory, her particular interests within HR include employment law, DE&I, and wellbeing within the workplace. Prior to working with HRreview, Amelia was Sub-Editor of a magazine, and Editor of the Environmental Justice Project at University College London, writing and overseeing articles into UCL’s weekly newsletter. Her previous academic work has focused on philosophy, politics and law, with a special focus on how artificial intelligence will feature in the future.