Back to work after long term sick

DocketLefty · Post by **DocketLefty** » 18 Jun 2017, 18:59

Evening,

I am back to work tomorrow after long term sick with a slipped disc (doctors note says back pain, although have statement from osteopath).

I have been off for 5 months & have a meeting with my line manager tomorrow to set up a return to work rehab plan for 6 weeks. I have a note from my GP for one month issuing a phased return to work.

What should i expect? I have never been referred to ATOS, apparently it's all done in-house now.

Many thanks

Post by **Lounge Lizard** » 18 Jun 2017, 20:01

It's a bit late now but you should have had Occupational Health involved.

DocketLefty · Post by **DocketLefty** » 18 Jun 2017, 20:50

I was told I would be referred but never happened. I will raise that tomorrow.

Post by **Lounge Lizard** » 18 Jun 2017, 21:10

DON'T agree to doing any more each day than you feel you are perfectly capable of.

DocketLefty · Post by **DocketLefty** » 18 Jun 2017, 21:24

Thanks Lizard.

rehabron · Post by **rehabron** » 19 Jun 2017, 13:31

DocketLefty wrote:Evening,

I am back to work tomorrow after long term sick with a slipped disc (doctors note says back pain, although have statement from osteopath).

I have been off for 5 months & have a meeting with my line manager tomorrow to set up a return to work rehab plan for 6 weeks. I have a note from my GP for one month issuing a phased return to work.

What should i expect? I have never been referred to ATOS, apparently it's all done in-house now.

Many thanks

It would have been better if you had an OH Assist report and I am surprised that your length of absence did not include a referral to Occupational Health and as you have mentioned will be a question that you will ask at your meeting with your line manager. On the other hand you do have a statement from osteopath and its contents clearly explains your limitations on the work you can be given and hopefully management will adhere to. If you feel that RM rehab plan is excessive in their expectations of your capabilities then you can request a referral to OH Assist and be copied in to their recommendations. In the RM rehab plan weekly meetings will be held to assess the risk of their programme and if adjustments have to be made. You will be required to answer the relevant questionnaire which is basically the ticking of boxes numbered from 1 to 10 in relation to severity of pain and discomfort. 10 being the highest indicator and this will be your opportunity at these meetings to have the work tailored to your satisfaction and not the business. If RM disagrees with your response at the rehab weekly meetings then inform your union rep. take the matter up

rubberbond · Post by **rubberbond** » 19 Jun 2017, 13:46

Surely, only a medical professional,can devise a rehab plan? Oh, hang on , I forgot, all Royal Managers are qualified medical experts,in all specialities of medical science should have thought of that before typing.

DocketLefty · Post by **DocketLefty** » 19 Jun 2017, 18:39

Thanks for your advice. I have agreed a 6 week rehab plan and I have been referred to ATOS for long term arrangements regarding specific vans/gradients etc. My rep has been fantastic today & managers been incredibly supportive on my return.