A set of four "absence management tools" provided by ACAS, the HSE and the CIPD were made available on line on 21st November 2006 - go to www.cipd.co.uk/subjects/hrpract/absence/absmantool.htm. The four "tools" cover: "Do you have an absence problem?" ; "How do you develop an absence strategy?"; "How do you deal with short-term absence?"; "How do you deal with long-term absence?".

For general relevant law notes on the emplaw website see as appropriate:

• CONTINUOUS EMPLOYMENT/time off work not breaking continuity

• Health and Safety at work

• HOLIDAYS or

• ILLNESS, SICKNESS AND ACCIDENTS or

• LAY-OFF AND SHORT TIME or

• MATERNITY or

• TIME OFF WORK or

• UNFAIR DISMISSAL/conduct and misconduct as reason for dismissal