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GoingPostal86
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Post by GoingPostal86 »

Hello

I have been off sick for the past 5 weeks due to gallbladder surgery. My manager wants me to return tomorrow on light duties for 2.5hrs (11 days early) and then return to normal full duties next week. This is still within my sick line as it does not run out until 18th (six week line). Do I need to speak to my doctor regarding my return to work? I have been told that despite what my doctor suggests my wages can be stopped. The doctors note said "not fit for work for 6 weeks". Am I being pushed back to work too early? Am I covered insurance wise if I return to work? My manager's boss has mentioned stopping my wages if I do not return. I generally feel much better after my surgery and do not mind light duties however this approach by RM has me somewhat miffed lol.

Some advise please! :crazy:
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POSTMAN
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Post by POSTMAN »

Read this especially the part about long term sickness, get your area rep involved, and put in a grievance as they are lying.
You should be referred to ATOS/OHS...
http://www.royalmailchat.co.uk/communit ... 36&t=52975" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
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TrueBlueTerrier
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Post by TrueBlueTerrier »

Have you been referred to OH Assist (ATOS), if they recommend staying off then it will be a brave Boss to go against their advice?

My advice - read up on the long term absence section in the Attendance Agreement (copy is in downloads)

Get your own Doctors/Specialists Advice.

Contact the rep - or Area Rep even if it's just to get them in the loop.

However, in essence, yes Managers can override medical advice legally now. But it has to be a reasonable decision based on the advice available to them at the time.

This thread has links etc discussing a similar case http://www.royalmailchat.co.uk/communit ... de#p709828" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
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GoingPostal86
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Post by GoingPostal86 »

TrueBlueTerrier wrote:Have you been referred to OH Assist (ATOS), if they recommend staying off then it will be a brave Boss to go against their advice?

My advice - read up on the long term absence section in the Attendance Agreement (copy is in downloads)

Get your own Doctors/Specialists Advice.

Contact the rep - or Area Rep even if it's just to get them in the loop.

However, in essence, yes Managers can override medical advice legally now. But it has to be a reasonable decision based on the advice available to them at the time.

This thread has links etc discussing a similar case http://www.royalmailchat.co.uk/communit ... de#p709828" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
No I haven't been referred to ATOS and for sake of a week I guess there is little point. Should I have asked to have been referred when I first went off on the sick after operation? I'm more concerned about returning to work and doing normal duty while within the doctors note without the doctors consent in case this gets me in trouble if something where to happen... unlikely as that is. Should I request light duties for the entirety of next week (final week of line) or go ahead and return tomorrow for three days light duties (2.5hrs) then full duty from Monday despite what doctor says? I have to ring the Dr tomo to hear her opinion.
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TrueBlueTerrier
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Post by TrueBlueTerrier »

if you haven't been referred then the manager is chancing his arm. You should have been referred for absences over 28 days If I remember correctly.

My advice still stands but I would contact a rep ASAP you'll need them onside to stop the manager. There is a clause in the Attendance Agreement that states you will be held responsible if you go against medical advice you could mention that to the manager.
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GoingPostal86
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Post by GoingPostal86 »

Thank you for the help. I have spoken to my rep and he has advised not to return to work without the consent of the doctor tomorrow. If the doctor OKs it then I can return on light duties with no worries.
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