Working from due to injury question

[Z064life]

Hi Guys,

I've got a colleague who has been working from home for 5 weeks due to injury. The job (as mine) is office based, so he is fully capable of working. He couldn't give notice of the time off due to the way things unfolded and has still been able to deliver tasks (granted, he may miss an hour at work to tend to his injury or go to the doctors), and has worked overtime to compensate (not formal paid overtime, just working past 6pm).

My employer seems quite flexible with this but I am wondering, can an employer sack or discipline an employee for this? Could it make said employee more favourable to be "managed out"? Also, in the case of chronic health issues and interviewing for a new job, where you know from time to time you may be off sick, what's the best way to handle this?


Thanks!

[anonymous-user]

I'm not an expert, however I think the employer has demonstrated reasonable adjustment already. Saying no, is often the first wrong thing an employer does.

Therefore having already tried this, it MIGHT then make the employer build an easier case for further action, as they could choose to run down something like, tried home working isn't working therefore if matey can't get back we'll have to dismiss sorry done all we can...

I think your colleague should do all they can to set out a reasonable plan for return or be open to other suggestions, reduced working, part time etc.

Clearly they have a normal recovery period which is reasonable, however done fall into the trap of the employer being just a bit too nice with a plan..

Perhaps I'm a cynic..

Not sure any of that is worth anything..

[anonymous-user]

Always be upfront always

Would be my suggestion, as otherwise you've nothing to fall back on!