Template · UK · .docx
Absence policy — starter template (UK)
A starting-point absence policy mirroring Acas's recommended structure — reporting, self-cert and fit notes, SSP, return-to-work interviews, Bradford Factor caveats, long-term absence, and time off for dependants.
Direct download. No email required. Last reviewed 2026-06-11 against gov.uk and Acas.
WagePerks does not provide legal advice. This template is a starting point only.
Before using it for an employee, review the wording with your solicitor or HR advisor and update
it for your specific role, industry and circumstances.
What this template covers
- Reporting an absence (who to call, when, what to say)
- Self-certification (up to 7 days) and fit notes from day 8 (gov.uk)
- Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) and any contractual sick pay
- Return-to-work interviews — references the return-to-work form template
- Bradford Factor caveats — see /learn/bradford-factor-uk-hr/ — applied as policy, not statute, and never mechanically over disability-related absence
- Long-term absence — welfare meetings, occupational health, Equality Act 2010 s.20 reasonable adjustments
- Time off for dependants (Employment Rights Act 1996 s.57A)
What this template doesn't cover
- A disciplinary policy — absence-related disciplinary issues follow the disciplinary procedure
- A maternity / paternity / parental leave policy — those need their own policies
- A health-and-safety policy — covered separately
- Legal advice — review with your HR advisor before issuing
Sources behind this template
- Acas — Absence policies
- Acas Code of Practice on Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures
- gov.uk — Taking sick leave
- Employment Rights Act 1996 s.57A — time off for dependants
- Equality Act 2010 s.20 — reasonable adjustments duty
Sources verified 2026-06-11. We re-verify quarterly.
How WagePerks fits
Use this template to draft the policy. Then store the signed final version inside the WagePerks document management module — with version history, e-signatures and read receipts — as part of the £4.50 per employee per month all-in price. White-label included. Rolling monthly.