Stage 4 nhs sickness meeting-chances of dismissal?

[JustOneLastThing]

A friend of mine had been informed they are to have a sickness review meeting (stage 4) with the possibility of dismissal. Does anyone know how likely this is, and what rationale may be accepted to avoid this outcome if at all possible?

Is it due to a chronic condition that might fall under the DDA?
Is it due to long term absence and if so can she give a likely timescale for return?

They have underlying conditions which make up most of the sickness, one period of d&v and 4 weeks off for anxiety/depression, which has exacerbated one of the underlying conditions (hypos caused by diabetes). All if this has been intensified by a long term relationship breakdown and massive life changes.

Has your friend had a referral to occupational health? Sounds like she would be considered disabled under the equality act. Has work considered reasonable adjustments? That said it doesn't mean they can't be dismissed if absence is unsustainable.

It sounds like the diabetes could be considered under the DDA. She should ask them to consider this (possibly request an OH referral to back this up). She could then request that absence due to this (directly or indirectly) not link to progression through sickness stages, which would just leave the d&v. She could also request regular meal/ snack breaks or anything else to help manage her condition.

Has she contacted her union. She will need it.

It is actually quite hard to get to stage 4. Ime it usually results in dismissal.