Almost a third (30%) of respondents have noticed a rise in absence rates during the UK’s recent hot weather, according to research commissioned by PMI Health Group.
The study, which was conducted among 93 medium-sized and large employers, found that more than half (54%) of respondents do not operate flexible-working policies that staff are able to use at short notice.
It also found that 71% of respondents find it easier to engage employees in wellbeing programmes during the summer months.
Mike Blake (pictured), director at PMI Health Group, said: “It is perhaps unsurprising to find the recent heatwave has had an effect on absence, but the survey results highlight the need for employers to understand whether this is caused by illness or lifestyle.”
