Our response to IPPR report: Going to work while sick can cost economy

Paul Schreier, CEO at Simplyhealth, said: “It’s no secret people are less productive if working while sick, and what matters most is they get back to good health as soon as possible.”

“Our research has shown a fifth of employers (20%) saw presenteeism - working while sick - as a problem in their organisation in the past 12 months, and we also know rising sick days have affected nearly double as many employers (38%).

“With NHS waiting lists for everyday treatment at record highs, employers would be wise to offer effective workplace health cover that can enable access to GPs, counselling and physio (with mental health and back pain being the two leading causes for time off work). We know over half of employees (52%) say if their employer offered health cover, they wouldn’t need to take as much time off.”

“It’s also important that employers ensure employees feel supported to take the time they need to attend appointments and fully recover.”

“It’s a no brainer – a happy and healthy workforce is far better for business productivity and workplace morale.”