UK Sickness Absence Rate Stable at 4.4 Days per Worker in 2025, ONS Data Shows

The Office for National Statistics published data on 2025 sickness absence on or around 2026-05-12. 8 million working days were lost to sickness or injury in the UK in 2025, almost 10 million higher than before the pandemic. 4 days each to sickness in 2025.

That average was unchanged from 2024 yet remained above 2019 levels. Women, older workers, people with long-term health conditions and part-time employees recorded some of the highest sickness absence rates in 2025. 7 per cent in the private sector.

4 per cent in 2025. 5 per cent. 4 per cent of sickness absence cases.

9 per cent. 17 million fit notes were issued in the UK in 2025. 3 million of those were classed as “not fit for work”.

Women accounted for almost six in ten fit notes issued in 2025. Nearly one million sick notes advised phased returns, amended duties or altered hours. Mental and behavioural disorders were the most common diagnosed reason for fit notes, accounting for 36 per cent of diagnosed cases.

Musculoskeletal conditions accounted for 18 per cent of diagnosed fit note cases. The figures come as almost a quarter of people trying to contact their GP in March 2026 were unable to get through on the same day.

Nearly one in five NHS patients waiting for hospital treatment had been waiting more than 12 months as of the latest 2026 data. GB News reported that last week the UK government announced a new sick note rule to be rolled out across England in November, under which GPs can send patients to the gym, a career coach or a class instead of automatically issuing sick notes.