Holding a return to work discussion

All line managers must have an informal return to work discussion with employees on their return from any period of sick leave, irrespective of their grade or the length of their sickness absence.

This meeting helps ensure you have taken the appropriate steps to support the employee’s health and well being while also fulfilling the University's obligations. You should aim to have this discussion on the employee’s first day back at work.

A record of this conversation should be kept using the return to work discussion template and sharing this with the Employee.

What to cover in the discussion

The goal of the conversation is to be supportive while gathering the necessary information. Here are some examples of topics you should cover:

• Welcome them back and check in on their current health and wellbeing. Give them the opportunity to discuss any concerns they have.
• Explain how their work was covered during their absence and share any important updates.
• Identify potential work related issues. Ask if any work-related issues may be impacting their health and discuss what support they may need.
• Review their absence record and inform them of their total absence in the last 12 months. If their attendance is a concern, let them know that another absence may lead to a review.
• For employees returning from a long term absence, discuss how they will be supported back to full duties. This could involve a phased return to work or longer term adjustments.
• Consider any reasonable adjustments for disability or long term health conditions. Ensure these are recorded in an employee's Individual Adjustment Plan.
• Ensure that the absence is correctly recorded within the FlexiLeave app.