Off sick to due to MH issues

[fluffydressinggown]

My nurse has advised me that I am not well enough to go to work at the moment. I only started this job in May and I am shitting myself about ringing in. I will be off for at least a week.

I only work p/t but it is a customer facing role and so I need to be on my game (which I am not tbh). Can they fire me for taking time off? I work for the local council btw and I told them about my MH problems when I got the job and have seen occy health who cleared me for work.

bump

Sorry to hear you're in this situation fluffy. I too work in a customer facing role and due to mh issues am not up to the job at present. I've been off work for 2 weeks and have just been written off for another week, to be reviewed again. As I was a mess my dh was kind enough to call work for me and took my sick note in. I hope they are understanding when you contact them.

Sorry, forgot to say, I've been with my current employer for 18 months, have had 2 days off so far due to migraines, and now 3 weeks (at least) due to depression/anxiety.

Sorry to hear about your illness fluffy (and drummer).

Please comply with your organisation's requirements to maintain regular contact, keep them informed, send in Fit Notes promptly etc. It may seem an extra hassle when you are focusing on getting better, but keeping in touch will maintain a good relationship with your work, and you may need this, for example if you have prolonged absence.

When you go back to work, be sure to demonstrate your committment: for example, do not submit a leave request on your first day back. I'm sure you won't - but as an employer, I can tell you this sends the wrong message.

Hi I wanted to update this because I have now been sectioned in hospital. I am scared that work will sack me. The hospital sends out a sick note for me. Can they fire me for being sectioned?

Sorry to hear you're in hospital. Hope things improve soon.

I don't think they can fire you for being off ill or being sectioned. Have you spoken to them? Can you have a look through your contact?

www.time-to-change.org.uk/your-organisation/support-workplace/dont-want-to-lose-my-job

I've had a bit of a google and found this which has some links and advice. I hope it helps.

I have informed them yes, thank you for the link.

sorry, that should read "have you read through your contract?"