Redeployment from ill health

[leah1]

Hi,

I've been working for local government now for 20 years first job from school. it was a very manual intensive role. Now I believe although not yet proved by medical professionals that these tasks have caused the injury. Currently progressing a claim against them through union however they have no idea yet..

I recently had surgery and signs are that this hasn't worked currently waiting to go back see consultant in 2 months post Op. I have quite bad nerve pain in arm and neck.

Now my work have been great, and although I still have 3 month full pay left I've told the boss I want to return even from a computer at home atm more to show willing and also keep my hand in.
My job is all field based, with lots of driving 5-6 sites per day. But atm find it painful to drive long distances. And if things don't improve then I think this could be a huge factor.

He did mention he had spoken with hr and they have said if I don't get fixed then they will look at redeployment OH also involved which I haven't hidden anything as its totally genuine.

Now this is what's worrying me, I'm not the sort of person who can sit in front of a computer for 8 hrs a day.
I'm an outdoor person I do have the benefit of having a good knowledge in the line of work we do. I can see if I don't improve that I will be pushed into a job that wouldn't suit me mentally.
Unfortunately my current role involves lots of driving but there are other jobs within that have less driving overall but still field based.

Just looking for advice guys I'm worried about about my job now.
What can I expect to happen? Can I be picky?
Can they look at lesser paid roles than I am on now?
What should I say or do?
Can my gp help?

Thanks

[Ussrcossack]

You'll need a skills matrix.

It also depends what jobs are vacant, but redeployment would also take into account employee health reports and your doctor maybe asked for access to your records
HTH

[rog007]

Redeployment, with you helping the decision making, is not unusual, assuming you can no longer do your original contracted role due to ill health or for occupational health reasons.

You could reasonably expect to be offered a few suitably alternative roles to choose from, either because there’s a vacancy or if they’re happy to have you over established.

The issue becomes if you decline any of those reasonable offers. Two options usually remain: leave; or apply for another role that you would like (assuming one is vacant and out to advert).

Does your organisation or union (if you are a member) have any policies or guides in place covering redeployments?

[leah1]

Thanks yes they do have a procedure which I will be reading up on. I'm really hoping it doesn't come to this but I'm quite worried it will.

My biggest concern is not being able to be field based, and trying to convince someone in hr who has always worked from office environment that, not everyone enjoys that type of work environment.

If it did come to the crunch, how do they decide if they make me redundant or finish me on ILL health what's the difference

[rog007]

From what you’ve written, redundancy would not usually be an option as your role still exists; it’s just that you can no longer do it.

Therefore, by offering you suitable alternatives, they have usually discharged their obligations.

If you choose not to accept one of those roles, they may be able to release you as you’re unable/unwilling to meet the obligations of your contract.

Again, read your specific employer’s policy on redeployment.