The impact of time lost through absenteeism on service delivery in the South African Police Services (SAPS), the area Kuilsriver cluster, Cape Town, Western Cape.

Abstract

Absenteeism in the South African Police Service is without doubt one of the most difficult aspects to manage. It is therefore important for the organisation to have measures in place to reduce absenteeism. More focus is put on the cost of absenteeism without realising the enormous adverse effect it has on service delivery in the South African Police Service. By reducing the absenteeism rate by just one day per employee, organisations can boost productivity, improve morale and improve their profit margins significantly (Nel, 2013:1). This research project examined the impact on service delivery of time lost through absenteeism in the South African Police Service with specific reference to the Kuils River cluster Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa. Problems relating to absenteeism as well as the main contributors to absenteeism were identified by the researcher and recommendations were made. A quantitative research approach was followed with a survey amongst staff members. The data analysis from the questionnaire was compiled by the in-house statistician that was recommended by Cape Peninsula University of Technology. The research project makes recommendations that address the problems highlighted in this empirical study, as well as a recommendation for further studies.