Return to all blogs

Absences blogs.

Browse all blogs

Manager on the phone filling in a return to work form at his desk
Absences5 min

Return to work form and interview: a guide for UK managers

A copy-ready return to work form, the questions to ask, and what to do when the fit note says 'may be fit for work'. For UK managers of shift teams.

Sickness absence policy: a 2026 guide for UK employers
Absences6 min

Sickness absence policy: a 2026 guide for UK employers

Day-one SSP is live in 2026. See what your sickness absence policy must include, how to apply triggers fairly, and audit yours with a free checklist.

How to reduce staff absence in shift-based teams
Absences7 min

How to reduce staff absence in shift-based teams

Staff absence costs UK shift-based businesses hours every week. Here's how to reduce sickness absence, stay SSP-compliant in 2026, keep your rota covered.

Best absence tracking software for retail companies: a practical shortlist 2026
Absences12 min

Best absence tracking software for retail companies: a practical shortlist 2026

Shortlist of the best absence tracking software for retail in 2026: compare features, pricing, and pick the right tool for your stores.

Can employees donate PTO? Here’s what employers must know
Absences6 min

Can employees donate PTO? Here’s what employers must know

A PTO donation scheme lets staff give leave to a colleague who needs it. How to set one up compliantly, what to cap and where the tax lands.

How to talk to an employee about excessive absenteeism: the employers guide
Absences8 min

How to talk to an employee about excessive absenteeism: the employers guide

Find out how many absences are considered excessive and how ow to talk to an employee about excessive absenteeism.

How does PTO accrue? Rules, methods, and best practices
Absences9 min

How does PTO accrue? Rules, methods, and best practices

PTO can accrue per hour worked, per pay period or all at once. The methods, how each affects your balance sheet and worked examples of all three.

FAQ: how many PTO days is normal? A complete guide for employers
Absences9 min

FAQ: how many PTO days is normal? A complete guide for employers

What counts as normal PTO depends on the market you hire in. The typical allowances, the legal minimum and how to set one that stays competitive.

Does PTO count towards overtime? A must-know for employers
Absences10 min

Does PTO count towards overtime? A must-know for employers

Find out if PTO counts towards overtime, how laws differ in the US and UK, and how to protect your business.

FAQ: do you get paid for unused sick days? What every boss must know
Absences10 min

FAQ: do you get paid for unused sick days? What every boss must know

Find out if you must pay for unused sick days and learn how to create fair, legal sick leave policies for your team.

How to respond when an employee calls in sick (with example messages)
Absences4 min

How to respond when an employee calls in sick (with example messages)

How to respond when an employee calls in sick: what to say, example messages, and how to cover the shift fast. A short, practical guide for managers.

Why employees are calling in sick when denied vacation & how to stop it
Absences13 min

Why employees are calling in sick when denied vacation & how to stop it

A refused holiday request has a way of turning into a sick day. Why it happens, how to respond without accusing anyone and how to stop the pattern.

When does PTO reset? The complete guide for employers
Absences5 min

When does PTO reset? The complete guide for employers

PTO reset schedules explained: calendar year, hire date, and fiscal year. Learn how to manage unused PTO, carryover limits, and stay compliant.

Can you refuse a holiday request? A UK employer's guide
Absences7 min

Can you refuse a holiday request? A UK employer's guide

Can an employer refuse a holiday request in the UK? Learn the notice rules, handle competing requests fairly, and get a free policy template.

How does PTO work for hourly employees?
Absences6 min

How does PTO work for hourly employees?

Do hourly employees get PTO? It's not required by US federal law, but many employers offer it. Here's how hourly PTO works and how to manage it.

How to write an annual leave policy for your UK team
Absences5 min

How to write an annual leave policy for your UK team

How to write an annual leave policy for your UK team: statutory rules, bank holidays, carry-over and a free template. Built for shift-based businesses.