Employees at Perth and Kinross Council have been found to be taking more sick days, according to a report by Audit Scotland for the year 2023-24. On average, staff members took 12.4 sickness days over the course of the year, raising concerns among councillors about the increasing absenteeism. The council’s Human Resources (HR) chief, Pauline Johnstone, mentioned that they are collaborating with strategic leads across the organisation to identify methods to better manage absence levels.
During a recent meeting of PKC’s Audit and Risk Committee, where the Audit Scotland report was presented, Councillor David Illingworth raised the issue of the high average number of sickness days taken by staff. He expressed his concerns and sought clarification on the measures being taken to address the situation. Pauline Johnstone highlighted that the rise in sickness days is a national trend and not specific to Perth and Kinross, with the average across Scotland also on the increase.
The report also highlighted the challenge posed by an ageing workforce at PKC, with 25% of employees aged over 55. Further statistics from the council revealed that only 12% of staff are under 30 years old, while 40% are over 50. Despite a turnover rate of 8.6% among permanent staff last year, efforts are being made to enhance staff skills and retention through various programmes.
The Audit Scotland auditor, Rachel Browne, commended the council for its positive performance in several areas as reflected in the report. She also noted the council’s adoption of hybrid working as one of the work styles within the organisation, with over a quarter of staff classified as hybrid workers. Employee feedback from a survey conducted in Spring 2024 indicated a relatively positive sentiment towards PKC as an employer, with an average rating of 7.2 out of 10 for likelihood to recommend.
Councillor David Illingworth emphasised the importance of ensuring that employees are fully engaged in their work and with customers, underscoring the significance of a positive work environment. He expressed satisfaction with the overall positive assessment outlined in the Audit Scotland report. Measures to address employee relations, wellbeing, and the ageing workforce at PKC are ongoing, in alignment with the council’s commitment to enhancing staff support and maintaining effective operations.