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Returned too soon

1 reply

Sum23 · 08/01/2023 12:03

I was in an accident 9 month's ago, which left me unable to work, drive or care for myself. I needed wheelchair to leave my house 6 months ago. I had surgery and I was taking some seriously addictive prescription pain meds. I'm over that now, recovery has been slow, but I hoped I'd be ok doing a phased return back to work. Just a few afternoons a week. My nurse wasn't too keen on the idea, but was a bit more supportive when I said it would be admin only.

Anyway, I went back last week and omg what a mistake! I can't retain any information they've given me to read, it might as well be in another language and I'm in a lot of discomfort, which continued for days after only half day at work. Im also struggling with concentrating on the drive to and from work. I feel like I could fall asleep at the wheel.

My employer also didn't stick to the agreement of doing admin only, they wanted me back on my normal duties on my second day! I was literally nearly sick I was so upset I left early. I had a back to work meeting, discussed my disabilities the accident had left me with and I had strict instructions not to over do it or carry out any heavy lifting.

Can I go back on the sick?

It's made me feel ill after what they did to me the other day and also made my condition worse. I'm dreading going back tomorrow. I've spoken to my union and they've said my employer is in the wrong for making me go back to my normal duties when I should be on a phased return and discussed all the legalities.

OP posts:
Princessglittery · 09/01/2023 00:40

Yes you can get a new fit note. I would also ask your employer to refer you to Occupational Health as they should provide advice on how best to phase you back into work.

I imagine you may meet the definition of disabled under the Equality Act 2010; so by not following the advice of admin duties they maybe be acting in a discriminatory manner. Your TU rep is right, so work with them to help you return to work.

I am not surprised you were shocked how difficult you found it when you returned to work. You have obviously been seriously injured and are very early in the recovery process, it is good you tried to return to work, but you need to recognise how important it is that you don’t over do it and set your recovery back.

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