Returning to Work After an Injury: What You Need To Know
This is a collaborative post.
Returning to work after an injury and time off can be daunting and stressful. In these situations, it is important to be aware of your rights and ways to streamline the process. This post will tell you all you need to know for a smooth return to work.
Understanding Your Rights & Legal Protections
First, you need to have a strong understanding of your rights and legal protections to ensure that they are upheld. There are a few legal protections in place, including fit notes, which are letters from your GP that outline your capability to return to work and can include recommended adjustments. The Equality Act 2010 also requires employers to make any reasonable adjustments to accommodate your limitations, including adjusting your work environment and/or modifying your responsibilities.
Planning a Phased or Adjusted Return
The transition back into work can be tough, which is why a phased or adjusted return is best. This can include reduced hours, modified duties, and/or flexible scheduling to make the transition easier to manage. You should have scheduled review points involving your employer and GP to ensure the transition is appropriate and so that any adjustments can be made.
Accessing Medical Support & Rehabilitation
You should also make use of medical support and rehabilitation to assist as you transition back into work. Healthcare professionals can work with you to ensure that you are returning to work in a safe way and prevent the chance of aggravating the injury. This can involve the use of occupational therapy, physio, vocational rehab, and GP involvement.
Managing Finances: Sick Pay, Benefits, & Compensation
Of course, money is an essential factor in returning to work after an injury. Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) can continue during a phased return, but rules can vary depending on hours worked. Additionally, Universal Credit may be used for support if your income is significantly less. If the injury is due to workplace negligence, you could make an accident at work claim to recover income and expenses.
Maintaining Wellbeing & Avoiding Relapse
It is also vital to prioritise your mental health during this time as a return to work can be stressful, cause anxiety, and be mentally draining. Therefore, you need to communicate, seek peer support, and avoid rushing back too quickly. You also need to be aware of musculoskeletal risks and ease back in to avoid relapse.
If you are returning to work after time off due to an injury, it is vital that there is a plan in place for this. This should involve having a strong understanding of your rights and legal protections, a phased return, accessing medical support, managing your finances, and protecting your mental wellbeing. Hopefully, this will allow for a smooth return to work and help you feel happy and confident as you adjust.
