I’m a recent HR graduate carrying out some project work which involves the setting up of the HR function, writing job descriptions, contracts of employment, staff handbook, comuterising personnel records and advising branch managers on ad hoc employment issues. Recently the M.D said he wants to deduct £50 per day from the bonus of any employee who has any time off that is not accompanied by a doctors certificate. The bonus is paid quarterly and is administered on an overall preformance and attendance basis, but i feel that to deduct bonus payments of £50 per day for non attendance could possibly be percieved to be discriminatory and to the detriment of pregnant employees, staff with disabilities and employees who have responsibilities for dependants. Can anyone offer some insights into the legalities of such a policy and whether or not its a good tool for improving attendance. Any assistance on this topic will be greatly appreciated.
Brian Boyd