Britain lost an estimated 148.8 million working days to sickness absence last year, according to official figures released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). This represents an increase of nearly 10 million days compared to the period before the Covid-19 pandemic.
Post-Pandemic Shifts Drive Absence Rates
Experts attribute the rise to a combination of changes in working patterns and evolving attitudes toward taking time off since the pandemic. The ONS data reveals that the average worker took 4.4 sick days in 2025, slightly higher than pre-pandemic levels.
Who Is Most Affected?
Women, older employees, part-time staff, and public sector workers recorded the highest absence rates. Individuals with long-term health conditions were also disproportionately affected. Minor illnesses such as coughs, colds, flu, nausea, and diarrhoea remained the leading cause, accounting for just over 30% of all absences.
Regionally, Yorkshire and the Humber recorded the highest sickness rate at 2.4%, while London had the lowest at 1.5%. Public sector absence continued to outstrip the private sector, reaching 2.9% compared to 1.7%.
Underlying Health Issues
Experts warn that the figures may understate the true scale of ill health in the workplace, as many employees continue working while unwell. Asli Atay, senior policy adviser at Lancaster University’s Work Foundation, noted: “These figures suggest sickness absence has stabilised, with the average worker taking 4.4 days off. But our research shows two in three employees have gone to work sick and felt they should have taken time off. The priority must be ensuring workers have the financial security to recover properly when they fall ill.”
Sick Pay and Fit Notes
Under current rules, employees must provide a “fit note” if they are off work for more than seven consecutive days. These can be issued by GPs, nurses, pharmacists, and physiotherapists. Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) now stands at £123.25 per week, payable for up to 28 weeks, though it remains among the lowest rates in Europe.
Brett Hill, head of health and protection at Broadstone, described absence levels as “uncomfortably high.” He warned: “Long periods away from work reduce the likelihood of a successful return and increase the risk of people leaving the workforce altogether. Pressure on NHS services is a key driver, with delays in GP appointments and treatment allowing conditions to worsen before people receive care.”
Rise in Sick Notes Issued
Separate figures show that more than 11 million sick notes were issued by NHS staff in England last year, more than double the 5.3 million recorded in 2015. Mental and behavioural disorders, including anxiety and depression, were the leading cause, accounting for over 900,000 notes.
Ruth Wilkinson, head of policy at the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health, added: “The loss of almost 149 million working days is a stark reminder of the scale of the challenge facing the UK workforce.”
