The key to a smooth return to work

Everyone gets sick from time to time. Sometimes we bounce back and sometimes we need a little extra support. Managing sickness absence can be a big task for any business, and that’s why so many rely on the Occupational Health team at YourGP. Here’s how we could support you and your employees enjoy a smoother transition during the return to work…

Returning when the time is right

When someone is sick, has undergone surgery or is dealing with a mental health issue, it is vital that they take all the time they need to make a full recovery before returning to work.

Employers have a legal duty of care to their staff and should never put pressure on employees to return to work before they are fit and able. Returning to work too soon could put the employee’s health at risk.

So how soon is too soon? That depends on a number of factors, including whether or not the employee is physically capable of handling the responsibilities of the role, and whether or not their mental health can cope with the return.

For any organisation, this can be a lot to weigh up but it’s vital that you get it right. That’s why many businesses of all sizes and sectors call in outside support from Occupational Health experts to help them navigate this tricky time.

A supportive, sensitive and fair approach

As Occupational Health experts, our role at YourGP is to support your employees as they return to work and ensure the whole process is handled with sensitivity and fairness. Some of the services we provide include:

• Rehabilitation: We can advise and support the employee through their rehabilitation to help speed up their recovery and get them back to work quicker.
• Fit for work assessments: By carrying out a comprehensive assessment, we can ensure the employee is ready to return.
• Return to work support: We can provide advice about phased returns, reduced or flexible hours and amended duties. We can also recommend reasonable adjustments that will help the employee fulfil their role safely and effectively.

Throughout it all, we can work in collaboration with your HR team to ensure the back-to-work process aligns with all relevant government legislation such as the Equality Act (2010), as well as your own company policies. And we’ll keep you fully informed of the outcomes so you can make any necessary management decisions.

Speak to the OH experts at YourGP

Whether your business is currently dealing with a long-term absence, frequent short-term absences or underperformance due to health issue, calling in an independent Occupational Health professional can make all the difference to the health of your employee and to your business.

To speak to an Occupational Health expert at YourGP, call 0131 225 5656 or email occhealth@your.gp and we’ll be happy to arrange an appointment at a time that suits you.