Phased return, what's the protocol?

[windchimes23]

I've been on sick leave for almost six months. Depression and anxiety, then diagnosed with Bipolar II and OCD.

I'm expecting to return to work on a phased return when my sick note ends on the 4th March. I've spoken to Occupational Health about a phased return (made a plan with them) but have had no contact from HR aside from a posted invite to the Christmas Party.

Today I recieved a text from my line manager basically saying 'See you on Wednesday'.

I texted back my manager and said that this was news to me. I'm happy to return but expected some kind of return to work interview to set out the terms of my phased return. Possibly involving HR in this too. He replied and said HR had told him to sort it out.

He hasn't even had a copy of my OH report. Surely after a long absence HR should be involved in putting the phased return into place? Am I expecting too much?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated as my anxiety levels are now back through the roof and I am dreading the prospect of just having to walk back into the office like I've been off on a couple of weeks annual leave with no plan in place.

So OH have recommended a phased return but you are not sure whether your employer have agreed to that recommendation? Is the recommendation specific (eg 3 mornings a week for 2 weeks or whatever) or just "we recommend a phased return"

When you say you spoke to OH and made a plan with them, what was the plan.

When I have done phased returns there is a strict plan in place and the hours get longer each week, and there is time to get back up to speed with colleagues and processes etc.

I would get a plan together of what you think you need, and wing it to your manager [if one doesn't already exist] to suggest this is the sort of phased return you were thinking about.

Thanks, I spoke to OH on the 16th. A phased return plan was agreed over a five week period, but no start date agreed.

I still have an active sick note until March 5th. OH said they would expect me to return in four weeks.

I got a text from my boss saying see you on Wednesday 4th March.

At no time has anyone from HR or my management team contacted me to discuss the phased return or a start date. Surely this should be discussed before my return or am I being precious?

No, get in touch with HR and find out what is happening.

Agree with pp, get in touch with HR.

I will contact HR for clarification tomorrow. Tried OH today but they didn't call back.

Also tried to get Psychiatrists notes but was told that I was not entitled to them. So I have no record of official diagnosis, which is frustrating as it means I'm not covered by disability act as my sick note says depression and anxiety.

Going to brave myself up for some phone calls tomorrow.