Sickness absence management
Learn how to manage sickness absence effectively, support employees and minimise business disruption.
Causes of long-term sickness absence
Long-term sickness absence refers to leave exceeding four weeks.
According to a 2023 CIPD report (opens in a new window), common causes include:
- Mental health issues
- Musculoskeletal conditions
- Acute medical conditions (e.g. cancer, stroke)
- Disability-related absences
Under the Equality Act 2010 (opens in a new window), employees with long-term impairments may require disability leave for medical appointments or treatment.
Page last reviewed: 26th March 2025
