Hi TIM,
Regarding your first bit, there are or were some insurance companies that cover absences from work, but from what I gather, they were designed for the self employed, but it might be worth seeing your local, friendly rip off merchant of an insurance broker to see if they have anything that may help. But don't forget, we are trying to get shift pay etc. built into sick pay in this years pay negotiations, so don't rush out and buy anything just yet.
I am having a period of enforced absence from work at the moment, so the news that NW is not up to his usual self comes as a surprise to me. I know that JC has been off with a heart condition, but we are so busy with 'C' checks that we don't hear anything but 'Get on with it, don't stop working, strict break times must be observed'; perhaps the Curry Lover may be of assistance.