Mind the Gap: Absences Before and After Bank Holidays

As the May bank holidays roll in, it's not uncommon for businesses to see a spike in last-minute absences just before or after the long weekend. While some may be genuine, it’s also a time when patterns of absenteeism can start to emerge—causing disruption, lowering morale, and adding pressure to already stretched teams.

At P2HR, we get that managing time off can be a balancing act. Employees need breaks to recharge, and a culture that supports wellbeing is vital. But recurring absences that conveniently bookend bank holidays may hint at deeper issues—anything from burnout to disengagement, or, occasionally, something more intentional.

Here are a few tips to stay on top of things:

🔍 Track absence patterns – Keep an eye out for repeat occurrences around public holidays. If it’s happening often, it’s worth a quiet, supportive conversation.
📆 Be clear about expectations – A simple reminder before bank holidays about the process for booking leave and the impact of short notice absences can make a big difference.
🤝 Have regular check-ins – Sometimes an unexpected absence is a sign of something bigger—whether it's workload stress or personal struggles. A quick check-in can open the door to the support they need.
📋 Use a fair and consistent approach – Having clear policies and sticking to them ensures everyone is treated fairly, which helps maintain trust.

If you're noticing patterns or feeling unsure how to tackle recurring absences, we can help. At P2HR, we’re here to guide you through difficult conversations and put proactive processes in place—so your team stays happy, healthy, and productive.