Getting Signed off Sick

[EmiJomobean]

Hi All, looking for some advice please!

So I am 29 weeks with twins, and have been really struggling for the last few weeks. I’ve tested positive for covid which has just floored me again!

my companies policy is if you go sick 4 weeks before due date, then maternity leave automatically starts. So am clear in that sense.

I haven’t been feeling well enough to work before even getting sick and have been feeling myself getting more and more worn out! But I hate taking time off and feel so guilty.

If I get signed off (which I’ve never done before) it has to be pregnancy related so I am not penalised at work. Taking another episode of sickness will trigger disciplinary which is causing me considerable anxiety. I have had a lot of time off this year probably thanks to my weakened immune system due the babies 😫 I just want to look after mine and my babies health.

I worry about them always.

many advice on how I go about this with a difficult employer? So drained and upset 😭

Can you say more about what "penalised at work" would mean?

You are genuinely unwell and so should just notify your employer that you're not fit to work.
Are you a member of a trade union? Now would be an excellent time to join one!

@SouthwestSis thanks for replying, basically if sick note goes down as pregnancy related it doesn’t contribute to sickness record. If I’m signed off with covid I’ll trigger a 1st step disciplinary 😔

Many unions will not get involved with an existing issue if you join afterwards.

Have your previous absences not been marked as pregnancy related?
What does a 1st stage disciplinary entail?

Just say you are fatigued and in pain with carrying twins (I've got pelvic girdle pain at only 22 weeks).
You need to look after yourself. X

(I'm not off sick but can't see me making it till 38 weeks working but we will see)