Off sick over Christmas

[Deleted User]

Hi all,
I had a minor operation a few weeks ago and was signed off work for 4 weeks which takes me until the the mid first week in Jan. I'm still in some pain and pretty tired but not bed bound and can potter slowly around the house.
My question is maybe a stupid one, but I had plans to visit family over Christmas (sorted before I knew I had to have the op), can I still go if I am not well enough to work? I've not had sick leave except for migraines before and never had a drs note so I don't know if there are any rules about what I'm actually allowed to do whilst I'm not working.
If it makes a difference I have full sick pay and had taken no annual leave days over Christmas but would have got the bank holidays off.
Thank you in advance!

Rosemary7391

It's quite possible to be fit enough to travel (especially to relatives who will take care of you) and not fit enough to work. I wouldn't worry about it. Honestly, as I live alone, I might well make the effort to travel to someone who would look after me while I recovered!

[Deleted User]

Thank you for your reassurances. I am known to be a worrier!

Masomnia

If you're not well enough to work then there's no problem.

All I would say is don't plaster it all over facebook, colleagues can be stirrers.

elsien

I went on an already booked holiday to Goa while off sick. Work were aware and did not have an issue with it. Can't see anyone quibbling about a visit to family. Just don't plaster lots of pictures over social media.

[Deleted User]

Thank you. I don't have any social media so won't be posting photos etc!
Thank you both for the advice.

C_Mababejive

Try not to worry,,make the most of your time off to relax and recuperate. You sound very honest. Lots of people wag it from work for non genuine reasons and dont give it a second thought.

74jax

It's a personal dilemma I've had too. I had a foot operation, house bound, off work. My friend came to take me out for lunch. I felt so guilty, could I be out in public..... Until I looked at it from another view point. The day out helped me enormously and cheered me up no end. I was well looked after and had fresh air etc.

Go, guilt free, and enjoy.

Mrs_Ryan

Go and don’t worry- I’m sure your family will look after you well and it can only help your recovery.
I’m signed off sick with depression and work related stress at the minute but my GP actually told me to go and do things I enjoy to help me relax. He said if work gave me any grief he would write to my manager.

[Deleted User]

Thank you all, you have been a great reassurance