One employer which takes first prize rewarding 100 per cent attendance is Merseyside Fire and Rescue, whose scheme has halved the sickness absence rate. Four years ago the service introduced an 'absentee incentive scheme'. Occupational health manager Paul Blanchard-Flett pointed out that in 2003-2004, each employee was taking an average of 11.36 days off per year. By 2008-2009, this figure had plummeted to 5.5. There are prizes for full attendance — anyone who goes 12 months without a day off sick is entered into a draw with the chance to win a family hatchback.
Those going three months without absence can win £1,000 in cash or department store vouchers. More than 80% of the 1,500 employees qualify for the car prize draw. "The cost of the incentive scheme is minor in comparison with the cost savings that are made," explained Mr Blanchard-Flett.
Employers who cannot afford a new car as a prize can switch to a time and attendance system from St Helens-based Time and Attendance North West. We provide a range of excellent hardware and software solutions that can help by removing errors in time keeping, ensuring safety and providing optimal working conditions to maximise productivity at work. The bespoke clocking systems are so easy to use, and features include contactless smart cards and touch screens.