The cost of constant availability: a moral injury perspective on virtual presenteeism in UK academia

Purpose

This study examines the persistence of presenteeism (i.e. working while unwell) in UK higher education institutions (HEIs), focussing on how the post-pandemic expansion of flexible working arrangements (FWAs), particularly remote working, has reshaped this phenomenon into “virtual presenteeism.” Drawing on the moral injury framework, the study investigates the relationship between FWAs and presenteeism among academics and non-academics in the UK HE sector, highlighting how institutional pressures and managerial practices shape sickness-attendance norms.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected through an online survey of 516 academic and non-academic staff at UK HEIs.

Findings

The analysis reveals the emergence of an online sickness-attendance norm among both academic and non-academic staff, with the latter experiencing it as a new, post-pandemic pressure. The data show that staff feel compelled to work remotely while unwell. Many respondents viewed these expectations as misaligned with the employer's duty of care and described experiences consistent with moral distress and perceived institutional betrayal. The study highlights the critical role of inadequate managerial support and cultural pressures in sustaining virtual presenteeism, which affects employee well-being.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the literature by conceptualising virtual presenteeism through a moral injury lens, showing how FWAs can intensify harmful work norms, including sickness presenteeism. We treat moral injury as an explanatory lens for understanding how potentially morally injurious events (PMIEs) might be perceived in HE (e.g. pressures to continue working while ill, inadequate cover or support). Therefore, we outline the need for targeted interventions, cultural change, and moral repair within HEIs to secure employee well-being and challenge unhealthy expectations surrounding sickness and work.