Employees sickness lies cost economy £32 billion

A new study has found that one in three UK employees lie to their boss about being sick to avoid having to go into work.

Thirty four percent of almost 2,000 people questioned admitted to skiving off work because they are bored and depressed with their jobs.

Hangovers, romantic getaways and good weather also acted as motivations for staff to dishonestly take the day off.

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Additionally, it was discovered that employees planned their sick days in advance and acted out symptoms in the office in the days leading up to their absence.

A stomach upset was found to be one of the most common excuses used by employees to justify their absence.

Even pet illnesses were given as a reason for staff members having to take the day off.

Aside from being ill, other far-fetched excuses included falling out of a loft, getting beaten up by a bouncer and having a pet rabbit run away.

Employee absenteeism costs the UK economy approximately £32 billion a year, according to PricewaterhouseCoopers, who carried out the survey.

“Introducing or enhancing flexible working arrangements can make a difference,” said PwC partner Neil Rowden after it was discovered that family needs accounted for 21 percent of false sick days.

He added: “Ensuring people feel they're not taken for granted is also important. Some 15% of those who provided false excuses felt they deserved the time.”