BURY companies are suffering due to a worrying rate of absenteeism.

A shock report has disclosed the north west economy is in poor health as the region reports the highest level of sick leave in the country.

Latest figures show there is a regional average of 10.1 days of absenteeism, compared to the nationwide average of 7.2 days taken off in 2003.

More than 25 million working days are lost annually as a result of workplace accidents, injuries and ill-health and now ENWORKS, the north west-based environmental business support service is set to reduce this number.

The Workers Safety Advisors (WSA) Challenge Fund has appointed the not-for-profit organisation the challenge to make the region's employees healthier and reduce the cost of sick leave.

ENWORKS will focus on encouraging workers and employers to identify and manage risks together, promote partnerships, as well as providing an expert source of free and impartial health and safety information.

The services will be delivered locally and are designed to protect staff and increase the profitability of local companies.

Todd Holden, regional manager for ENWORKS, said: "Health and safety is not just about complying with legislation and reducing sick absences. Staff morale can also be boosted and productivity can be increased through the introduction of health and safety good practice."

The ENWORKS philosophy is to create a sustainable business community in the region. This will now be extended to enable companies and organisations to take greater responsibility for the health and safety of their workforce.

Companies can access the new services from ENWORKS by calling freephone 0800 0320222 or by visiting www.enworks.com