Manager discussing employees absence

[DC_FC]

Is it acceptable for a manager to discuss with other employees why another colleague hasnt turned up for work on a certain day

[237SJ]

No. It`s unethical and they might be breaking the data protection act

[buildersmate]

No it isn't.
And neither is there a remote possibility that it is ANYTHING to do with data protection.

[catmando]

Why not? It would seem the obvious first step to take - to ask if anyone knows where X is today, if X had not already taken the required step of informing the boss why he/she didn't turn up.

[woofgang]

That I think would depend on what the manager asked/said. eg
"Has anybody seen or heard from XXX today or know where she is?" OK
"Is that bl**dy woman skiving again what excuse did she give this time?" Not OK
"XXXX won't be in today. and probably not for the next few days" OK
"have you heard? XXX was arrested last night for drunk driving so she won't be back to work till wednesday." Not OK

[DC_FC]

I can understand in some jobs its important to know if someone isnt in, i dotn have to ask where person X is as i get told that hes not in due to whatever, personally i dont have a problem with others knowing why i wasnt in work. I just find it weird that everyone is told the reason, ive not experienced it before

[askyourgran]

No it isn't acceptable. The Manager should wait for the person to contact him/her.