Working after a bereavement requires recognition, space and support
Average bereavement-related absenteeism is 219 days
Son, 8 November 2023 – Bereavement leave has been a subject of discussion among politicians and the working population in the Netherlands for some time. Understandably, because the loss of a loved one has a huge impact, both for the person concerned and for the organisation in which they work. The average length of time that bereaved employees are absent from work is 219 days. That was revealed from statistics from health and safety services ArboNed and HumanCapitalCare, both part of HumanTotalCare and serving around 1 million employees. Give employees space to grieve and ensure that they feel heard and supported is the advice of the health and safety services. That makes it easier for them to return to work.
Recognition and space
How someone grieves and manages their work during the grieving process varies in each person. ‘In every case, it is important to recognise that bereavement is an accepted reason not to come to work for a while,’ says Jurriaan Penders, company doctor and director of medical affairs at HumanCapitalCare. ‘This can be achieved by incorporating bereavement leave in law. This ensures that space is available to everyone if it proves necessary.’
Benefits of working
But taking leave or reporting sick may not be the solution for everyone. In fact, people who are grieving can benefit from their work. Penders: ‘Work gives grieving employees structure, a sense of purpose, as well as distraction in the grieving process. Particularly if they feel heard and supported by their manager and colleagues. That makes it easier for them to return to work. It is important to talk to each other and explore what someone needs.’
Long-term bereavement leave
Bereavement is not an illness, but it can mean that someone is unable or less able to do their work. It takes time to come to terms with the loss of a loved one and adjust to the new situation. If you don't manage this well, bereavement can cause long-term absenteeism. Statistics relating to employees who are absent for lengthy periods and who are seen by the company doctor show that the average bereavement-related absenteeism has risen to 219 days (from 183 days in 2019).
Assistance and support
Besides the emotional stress of losing a loved one, there are often many practical problems, such as caring for children or clearing a house. And the bereavement may have been preceded by a long period of caring for the person, causing long-term stress in addition to grief. Penders: ‘We often hear from bereaved employees who are absent for a long time that they don't experience sufficient support and supervision at work. And the longer someone is absent from work, the more difficult it is to return. Space to take the time you need, a helping hand and understanding are therefore in everyone's interest to make the return to work as easy as possible.’
Expert help
The type of help required varies for every grieving employee. ‘Just make sure that expert help is available,’ Penders emphasises. ‘With good bereavement support, you can shorten or even prevent absenteeism.’ A social worker appointed by a health and safety service can help here. A social worker can also advise managers on how to embark on a conversation about bereavement and how to provide the necessary attention and care. Penders: ‘From a business economic perspective, but particularly in terms of social responsibility, it is important that every business devotes attention to supporting grieving employees. Even if that is not regulated by law.’