Does this sound right?

[haphazardaugust]

Have had a period of sickness and wanted to return to work on a phased return (with full pay) this week. I have been advised that I need an OH meeting to discuss this. OH is fully booked up, however, until next week. The choice I have then seems to be that either I continue on half pay and stay off work until the OH is free to meet with me or use my annual leave so I get full pay.

Does this sound right? I may be overthinking this but there seems something wrong in those being the only two choices I have when it's a staffing issue re OH availability

Could you gamble and work at half pay, then get the remainder back paid following meeting with OH? Depends if you could afford to lose the full time wage if it didn't work out... I'd get your request to speak to OH shown in writing (an email or something) if you haven't already, so you have a record of it not being your fault that you've had to wait.

Yes, that's what I'm hoping. OH stated that they would email HR to advise of fact they could not offer an appointment until next week.

You shouldn’t have to use annual leave if you’re unwell, including on a phased return. Don’t agree to do this!

I would ask your GP to write a fit note saying you are fit for work on reduced hours, and to mention any major adjustments you need. That might be sufficient in the interim