Let The Games Begin – Dealing With Increased Holiday Requests

The 2014 Commonwealth Games are now underway in Glasgow! Given that the Games 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 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 Games and communicate how they will deal with sporting-related unauthorised absences. For example, warning employees that matters will be dealt with under a disciplinary procedure should, hopefully, act