to apply for another job when on sick leave

[User600200]

I've been off five months with depression and stress. I'm currently looking for other roles.would it be better to go back to work and then look or to get another job when on sick leave?

Personally, I would wait until you’re well and back at work before applying for another job. Unless the stress has been caused by this role in particular?

Any new employer will want to know how many days sickness you’ve had in the previous 12 month period. IMO it’s better to be back at work (and clearly fit for work) before applying for new jobs.

Hope you feel better soon

Yes it's mostly work related.

I did exactly that. Off work with work related (also double bereavement related) stress and the the doc prescribed anti depressants and a new job. New job didn’t ask, I didn’t tell. Still had stuff to work through but in a much healthier working environment and minus the stress of worrying about SSP landing me in financial difficulties.

I think you may have posted yesterday as Stressed500 and stressed500

I'd read the thread back there are many replies which could be helpful

IME it's rare for employers to provide sickness data on a reference. You have time to devote yourself to a job search whilst you're off so I'd say to do it now.