Termination of contract threat as of 2nd Jan 2013

webbo1981

Hi I have been off work since Feb 29th 2012, signed off from my doctor. I got signed off with GAD, OCD and Depression

As of Monday just gone I finally got Diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder. They have took me off the Anti Depressants and put me on some medication to help control the Bipolar

In addition to letting my employer know this week they have since came back with a letter today saying that if I do not go back to work by the 2nd Jan 2013 they are going to terminate my contract. Although I understand their frustration this has actually made me feel worse Should I write back? Any advice?!

Just to note the letter I received is just that, a letter, not an actual dismissal notice

newbie1980

i know it may be frustrating for you by an employer cannot keep a job open for ever

you need to understand from there perspective that if your not coming back they need to fill the position

it may not be the answer you were looking for but you really need to take legal advise/speak to your union to see where you stand

i think your employer has been very reasonable up to now

webbo1981

Totally agree. Thats what I was meaning in my last post, I understand it must be frustrating, meaning for the employer

agrinnall

Is there any possibility that you would be able to return to work before their deadline? Could you perhaps start back on reduced hours to see how you get on? Do they have an Occupational Therapy function that could advise you?

webbo1981

If I felt I could go back before then I would. Unfortunately, although I feel fine now, tomorrow and then Sunday are different days

James1968

What if you returned for 2 weeks then got signed-off again ?. You could argue that you have returned before the deadline.
On the other hand, your employer could argue that you are unfit for the job and terminate your employment (and give your job to the temp they probably had to hire to cover your job).

If you can survive without any income, then don't return to work and lose your job. If you need an income, then you need to force your way back to work. You might find returning to work and being surrounded by stuff to keep you busy is just what you need to help your mental state.