Decision details

The Head of People, ICT and Property Services submitted a report detailing absence levels, short and long term sickness for 2011/12 including the current and proposed initiatives to reduce absence.  A detailed analysis of the rationale behind short term and long term sickness, including the progress made against targets made in 2011/12 and proposed actions for 2012/13, were detailed in Essential Reference Paper “B” of the report now submitted. 

The Head of People, ICT and Property Services provided a detailed analysis of the turnover for the period 1 April 2011 to 31 March 2012 of 11.86% against a target of 10% and a breakdown of the Stability Index and vacancy rate.  An analysis of statistics relating to voluntary leavers was detailed in Essential Reference Paper “C” of the report now submitted.

Councillor J Ranger referred to the “reasonable” levels of sickness in comparison to other averages as set out in the report now submitted.

Councillor P Ruffles thanked Officers for such a comprehensive and detailed report and sought clarification in relation to home working sickness.  The Head of People, ICT and Property Services advised that trends were being monitored. 

Councillor P Ruffles queried the possibility of using voluntary workers to work on flower beds and litter pick and of the need to develop a policy.  The Head of People ICT and Property Services explained the Council’s position in relation to such a suggestion adding that there was a possibility of “helping partners out” and agreed to report back on this issue. 

In summary and in terms of sickness and proposed actions for 2012/13, the Head of People, ICT and Property Services recommended that the targets for 2012/13 remain at 5 days FTE (full time equivalent) for short term absence, 2.5 days (FTE) for long term absence and 9.5 days FTE total sickness absence.  This was supported.

In summary and in terms of turnover and proposed actions for 2012/13, the Head of People, ICT and Property Services provided an update in relation to the cessation of the Manpower Contract on 7 April 2013, of the County Council’s decision to bring in permanent recruitment in-house and how this might impact on East Herts District Council. 

Members supported the recommendations now detailed.

RESOLVED – that (A) sickness absence targets as detailed in the report now submitted, be approved, specifically that the targets for 2012/13 remain at 5 days FTE (full time equivalent) for short term absence, 2.5 days (FTE) for long term absence and 9.5 days FTE total sickness absence;

(B)  the Council continue to explore a shared regional recruitment portal with the East of England Local Government Association (EELGA) and sign up to the proposal; 

(C)     initiatives be explored in relation to career progression and succession planning;

(D)     new roles be reviewed to establish their suitability for Apprenticeship and Voluntary Work experience; and

(E)  turnover targets remain unchanged for 2012/13.