To ask the Chief Constable (I) what steps he is taking to proactively address the number of officers on duty restrictions given the percentage increase and associated cost to PSNI of £22m per annum that was reported to the Committee in February 2020; and (ii) the numbers within each rank of officers currently on extended full pay.
The following graph outlines the trends in absence and duty restrictions.
(a) Actions to address duty restrictions
- An Attendance Management Group (AMG) has been established to specifically address attendance management issues and the level of duty adjustments. The group monitors levels of duty adjustments and seeks to understand the contributory factors that influence those adjustments. AMG also provides direction on the sustainable and consistent approach to the management of officers and staff on both recuperative and adjusted duties.
- The recent increase in the level of duty adjustments is connected to revisions in our Attendance Management processes which took effect in February 2019. The new process has had the positive effect of reducing absence duration/length due to the initiation of earlier trigger points. However, a direct consequence of these changes is that officers and staff are returning to work earlier than they may have previously and has increased recuperative measures i.e. duty adjustments are needed to support the earlier return to work.
- Under AMG, a pilot scheme on duty adjustments has been running across 4 areas since November 2019. The scheme has tested the application of Supportive Recovery Plans by management and individuals. The aim of the Recovery Plans are to reduce the length of time individuals spend on adjusted duties and support a return to full duties associated with the individual’s role. Supportive management interventions and discussions are also encouraged via the pilot. An assessment of the pilot is planned for June 2020, 6 months post implementation.
- I recently commissioned a review into attendance management and duty adjustments under the leadership of T/ACC Clarke. I have received an initial report which is now being finalised into an action plan. A number of specific recommendations relate directly to the area of duty adjustments. I will ensure that, when finished, a copy of the action plan is shared with the Board.
(b) Officers currently on extended full pay
- On 26 February 2020, a total of 47 officers were on extended rates of occupational sick pay, made up of: 2 x Inspectors; 8 x Sergeants & 37 x Constables.