The 10-Minute Chat That Can Help Cut Absence Rates

The 10-Minute Chat That Can Help Cut Absence Rates

Sickness absence is at its highest in over ten years.

On average, UK employees are taking 7.8 sick days annually.

You can’t control every virus going around – or the health conditions people live with. But you can influence what happens when someone comes back to work.

There’s a simple step many businesses overlook – and it only takes 10 minutes.

 
What’s a return-to-work conversation?

It’s a short, informal chat when someone returns after being off sick.

A check-in to ask how they’re doing and whether anything’s needed to support their return.

That’s it.

No grilling, just a human conversation.

These chats show people they’re seen and valued.

They also help you pick up on things early, so you’re not constantly reacting to unexpected absences.

The goal isn’t to question whether someone was really unwell – it’s to make sure they’re OK to be back and that they feel supported going forward.

 
What should you say?

Try this:

“How are you feeling now?”
Let them share as much (or as little) as they want
“Is there anything we should be aware of or can do to support you?”
Keep it relaxed and respectful

Avoid this:

Making it overly formal or uncomfortable
Asking for details you don’t need
Leading with “We need to discuss your attendance”
Turning it into a disciplinary tone
 
Why it matters

Teams that use return-to-work chats tend to see fewer repeat absences.

You spot issues sooner.

People are more likely to open up about what’s affecting them.

And it puts you back in the driving seat, rather than constantly firefighting.

Handled well, it builds trust – not just with the person returning, but across the whole team.

People notice when colleagues are treated with care.

So if you’re not already doing this, it’s a great place to start.

 

A 10-minute chat that helps people feel better supported – and might just break the cycle of repeated sick days.