Sick leave

Not many, employers pay sick pay forever. If you’re off work for long enough, at some point you’ll likely be reduced to half-pay, and then to nil pay.

Each employer has different policies and different schedules of pay when it comes to sick leave. Managers aren’t always up to speed on these. So it’s important that you make sure you are. Often, people who get in touch with us didn’t know their timetable of long-term sick pay, and were shocked when they experienced a dip in their income.

Money can be a worry when you’re not working, but if you’re ill or have a disability there are a range of benefits and tax credits you may be able to claim. You might be able to get additional benefits, depending on your circumstances.

It can seem daunting to get to grips with the benefits system if you’re not used to it, but it’s always worth exploring what you might be entitled to. 

Whether you're off work because of physical or mental health, your self-esteem may be low. If you’re planning a return to work, it’s normal to worry about how you’ll go from being off work and focusing on your health to managing your role, and any stress that comes with it. This is especially true if you were off work because of a mental health issue or because of workplace stress.

It's only natural to feel anxious, but take comfort in the fact that you're unlikely to be dropped in at the deep end. Your employer may have an occupational health team that can help ease your return. And even if your condition is long-term, your employer is likely to give you the support you need to help you stay in work.