Signed off sick, next move?

OllysMum_2

tygr wrote: »

Can I just say that this is totally untrue and scaremongering won't help someone with depression.

While things worked out for you, I have to say that this is not scare mongering. Unfortunately, prolonged or frequent absence will make job hunting more difficult. Even more unfortunately, mental health issues still attract a lot of prejudice. I'm not saying that taking six months sick leave is the wrong thing to do in OP's case, none of us can as we don't know the full situation, but the impact on future employment is something to consider.

OP, in the short term, focus on getting well. Then, think seriously about addressing the problem. It sounds like this might be public sector or a multi-national (not usual now to get such generous sick pay) so you would likely be walking away from more than a job - good pension scheme, defined career path etc. Of course, sometimes it just isn't worth it and you're better out of the environment, but try to make that decision with a clearer head. There are a lot of good people out there right now struggling to find permanent employment.

Spirit_2

The main thing to focus on is getting well, however that is going to be made more difficult and take longer if you do not resolve the bullying issue.

Contact your Occupational Health Service and explain how you are feeling and your experiences that have made you feel bullied. Work related ill health is something they are paid to advise on and seek solutions for to manage the employers risks. Solutions may include an investigation into the bullying and a resolution of it such as disciplining and/or moving teh bullies, mediation to resolve differences or redeployment for you. If this is a large employer they will be familiar with situations like this as it is all too common and should work with you to get you back to work and limit their liabilities.

Do not resign your job.

flashnazia

tygr wrote: »

Can I just say that this is totally untrue and scaremongering won't help someone with depression.

I had six months off sick in 2010 due to anxiety and depression, which was partially due to work related stress. I have since had a temporary and a permanent job with well respected employers and my sickness record is now exemplary. Yes, some employers will require a full medical disclosure but others don't ask. If your condition is enduring, you will also be covered under the Disability Discrimination Act.

If you're unwell, you're unwell. Take the time you need to get better.

I'm sorry but I disagree. That level of absence, especially in this climate, can and does put employers off.

BTW, it's not called The Disability Act anymore...and work-related stress isn't automatically covered.

The practical solution is to look elsewhere now if work atmosphere isn't going to change.

yvonne13_2

Rosetta_2 wrote: »

I have been signed off sick with depression, my working life has contributed to this.

It is bullying but hard to say xyz has happened. I could tell managers but it is a their word against mine, as no witnesses.

I have been off work for just over a month, the thought of returning to this poisonous atmosphere makes my stomach churn. I have many years service with my organisation. I am asking for advice on the following either

Look for a new post whilst off sick
Resign, look for a new post
Await and see what happens, my company has a 6 months full pay sick leave policy
If I could not return to work then I am assuming they can dismiss me on sickness grounds.
Can I get any kind of benefit at all, I have never claimed for anything so have no idea.


Any thoughts gratefully received as I am struggling to think straight.

Rosetta_2 wrote: »

I did mention that we had an argument, it is not the only reason I have depression two of my relatives are seriously ill.This had stretched me and then the argument and following silent treatment tipped me over.

I do work for a huge organisation so possible chance of redeployment it is generally not an easy place to work. Lots of political machinations going on behind the scenes. It is worse than a school yard. I know other colleagues loathe the atmosphere and another colleague is now on meds for anxiety due to workload. I think in the current climate those of us lucky enough to have a job are often put on. I have had colleagues leave due to atmosphere. It is hard to put your finger on though as not overt.

Thanks for all your replies, I will keep coming back to them when comtemplating. I do think it is too early to make an absolute decision but I do think its very helpful getting other opinions.

Perhaps someone will come along who knows about theses things but I can see you say your being bullied but you also say it's your relatives illness that has given you depression.

Does your company pay out full sick pay when your depression isn't solely work related as you say it only contributed towards it?

cockaleekee

tygr wrote: »

Can I just say that this is totally untrue and scaremongering won't help someone with depression.

I had six months off sick in 2010 due to anxiety and depression, which was partially due to work related stress. I have since had a temporary and a permanent job with well respected employers and my sickness record is now exemplary. Yes, some employers will require a full medical disclosure but others don't ask. If your condition is enduring, you will also be covered under the Disability Discrimination Act.

If you're unwell, you're unwell. Take the time you need to get better.

And back in the real world ...

In the current economy employers have their pick of workers, why would they choose someone with such a poor attendance record? (Not a dig at the OP, just the reality of the situation.)

The OP *may* be granted protection under the Equality Act (the DDA is long gone). However, they will need to demonstrate that they have been discriminated against, and it is all too easy for an employer to demonstrate that another applicant had more relevant experience.

tygr

All I'm saying is that I was told similar when I was off sick about struggling to find another job and the additional worry and stress it caused did not make me get better any more quickly.

If the depression lasts for over 12 months it is considered to be a lasting and enduring condition and will be covered by disability discrimination legislation. The Equality Act makes it now illegal to ask about health during a job application process before a job is offered. They do ask about reasonable adjustments for interviews but in the OP's case they won't apply and it need not be mentioned.

As I said, and this is true based on my own experience, not all employers ask about past sickness records. You can also do voluntary work.

I think it is important to prioritise your health, and that includes resolving the issue at work that is adding to your stress, rather than worrying so much that you go back too soon and end up having to have more time off.

Good luck.

cockaleekee

tygr wrote: »

If the depression lasts for over 12 months it is considered to be a lasting and enduring condition and will be covered by disability discrimination legislation.

That's wrong - it is not nearly as simple as that.

tygr wrote: »

The Equalities Act makes it now illegal to ask about health during a job application process before a job is offered.

Wrong also [text removed by MSE forum team]

tygr

I don't think arguing will help the OP. If he/she would like to hear from someone who has experience of going through the same issue then I'm happy to be pm'ed.

ohreally

Rosetta_2 wrote: »

Lots of political machinations going on behind the scenes. It is worse than a school yard.

I know other colleagues loathe the atmosphere and another colleague is now on meds for anxiety due to workload.

Unless those affected start to hold individals to account, nothing much will change. Speak with your union rep to find a way to progress.

Is there a prospect any of the others affected will work with you to challenge the culture?

Takeaway_Addict

actually now they cannot ask you about absence/sickness until after they have offered a job so 6 months on the sick wouldn't show until after the job offer and then if the employer dismisses because of this reason they could get themselves in a whole heap of trouble.

However, there will be employers who will look to dismiss as soon as any sickness in the first 2 years starts to become untenable and it will always be in the back of their minds that there was a large period of sickness before employment.