Sickness and Absence Policy

Purpose: The Sickness and Absence Policy at Kickass Online Ltd (KAO) aims to support the health and wellbeing of our employees while ensuring effective management and minimal impact on the operations due to absences.

Scope: This policy applies to all employees of KAO.

Policy:

1. Notification of Absence: Employees must notify their supervisor or HR as soon as possible, preferably before their scheduled start time, on the first day of absence due to sickness.
2. Certification of Absence: For sickness absence of more than 3 consecutive days, a medical certificate (fit note) from a GP or healthcare provider is required.
3. Short-Term Sickness Absence: Frequent short-term absences will be monitored. HR may request a meeting with the employee to understand if any support or adjustments are needed.
4. Long-Term Sickness Absence: In cases of long-term sickness, regular contact will be maintained between the employee and their manager or HR. A return-to-work plan will be developed, which may include phased return, modified duties, or workplace adjustments.
5. Support and Adjustments: KAO is committed to supporting employees returning from sickness absence. This may include adjustments to their work or environment, based on medical advice.
6. Unauthorised Absence: Absences without notification or valid reason may be considered unauthorised and could lead to disciplinary action.
7. Confidentiality: Information about an employee’s sickness absence will be kept confidential and shared only with those who need to know for business or support purposes.
8. Return-to-Work Interviews: After a period of absence, a return-to-work interview will be conducted to welcome the employee back, update them on any missed information, and discuss any support they might need.
9. Abuse of Policy: Misuse or abuse of the sickness and absence policy will be subject to disciplinary action.