Two of the biggest events of the sporting calendar are on their
way! The World Cup kicks off on 12 June and, once that's over,
the Commonwealth Games will open in Glasgow on 23 July. Given that
both events are likely to lead to an increase in unauthorised
absence, employers should have procedures in place to ensure
minimal disruption to their business.
There is likely to be an increase in sporadic holiday requests
during this period. Employers should act fairly, consistently and
in a non-discriminatory manner when considering such requests.
"First come, first served" may be the preferred
option in some cases.
Whilst employers should not automatically assume that sickness
absence during the World Cup or Commonwealth Games is not genuine,
they may have grounds to be suspicious about some employees.
Employers should start making employees aware now that they will
closely monitor sickness absence during the summer months and
communicate how they will deal
