Typical Bradford Factor trigger points
| Score | Typical action |
|---|---|
| 0 – 50 | No concern |
| 51 – 124 | Informal chat |
| 125 – 399 | First written warning stage |
| 400 – 649 | Final warning stage |
| 650+ | Dismissal may be considered |
Automatic absence scoring
A score is only defensible if it is applied consistently. An HR adviser can set your trigger points, write the absence policy around them and support the managers running the meetings that follow.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Bradford Factor?
The Bradford Factor is a formula HR teams use to measure absence: S × S × D, where S is the number of separate absence spells and D is the total days absent in a set period, usually 52 weeks. It weights frequent short absences more heavily than one long absence.
What is a good Bradford Factor score?
There is no universal standard, but many employers treat under 50 as no concern, 51 to 124 as a prompt for an informal conversation, 125 to 399 as a formal warning stage and 400 or more as a final warning stage.
Is the Bradford Factor legal to use?
Yes, but apply it carefully. Absences related to disability, pregnancy or maternity should normally be discounted or adjusted, otherwise you risk discrimination claims under the Equality Act 2010. Use it as a prompt for a conversation, not an automatic sanction.
What are the downsides of the Bradford Factor?
It can penalise people with chronic conditions that cause frequent short absences, and may encourage staff to come to work ill or take longer absences. Always look at the reasons behind the number.
Do sponsors need to track absence?
Yes. Sponsors must record sponsored workers’ absences and report 10 consecutive working days of unauthorised absence to the Home Office, so accurate absence data matters for compliance as well as management.
Official sources
Rules and fees checked September 2026. Immigration rules change often — this tool gives general information, not legal or immigration advice. For advice on an individual case, speak to a regulated immigration adviser or one of the firms listed here.