Money Moral Dilemma: Should I return to work early from sick leave, given I'd be paid less?

MSE_Kelvin

This week's MoneySaver who wants advice asks…

I've been given a fit note signing me off work for four weeks, during which time I'll be on full pay, not statutory sick pay. From past experience of this medical issue, I know I'll be able to work part time after two weeks - but if I do, I'll only get paid for the hours I actually work for those two weeks, whereas if I take the full four weeks off, I'll get full pay. What should I do?

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sgthammer

It's not a dilemma if all the incentives are pointing one way.

lincroft1710

A healthcare professional has advised you should not attend work for 4 weeks. Follow their advice.

frosted_north

Take the time off. Get better. Do as the doctor says. The pay imbalance only adds to this.

Mum_of_two

I did that and went back part time - got full pay but boss tried to say hours not worked came off my holiday time!!!

MS888

You're signed off full-time work for four weeks because the medical opinion is that you're not fit to work full-time for the next four weeks. Take the advice and stay off work. If you return early, even part-time, you may give the impression to your employer or colleagues that you're not that ill and may set up an expectation that you'll work part-time when feeling less than 100% fit. That might make it harder for you or your colleagues next time you're off work due to sickness. Also, if you have a relapse, it might give the impression that you returned to work too early and made yourself more likely to fall ill. You say that you know how your illness works from past experience and, of course, only you know the full extent of your illness and only you know your own body. Your employer only knows what you choose to disclose but they may make assumptions based on ignorance. Your colleagues may know nothing and put the rumour mill into full swing. You need to be seen to take the medical advice you've been given, especially if occupational health are involved. As for the economic argument, no contest.

lostboy2010

no brainier for me , I’d take the 4 weeks on full pay

Peter__2

My employer would not let me return to work during period fit note says not fit for work - could be them being responsible and wouldn't expect me to work against doctor's advice and/or not wanting liability if returning to work early causes further damage to health. As others say keep it simple and follow your doctor's advice.

ripongrammargirl

If you have a medical note from the opinion of the doctor, that you need to take 4 weeks off work then you need that time to recover. Any employer would not allow you to return early anyway as that is the law. If you relapsed at work then all kinds of insurance liability would kick in. Take the time you have been told to have and don’t rush things as it could make you worse in the long run and colleagues picking up your work whilst you are off ill, would not appreciate you taking extra time because you are poorly again. Not really a dilemma as the medical profession has told you what to do.

gerrag

Follow the medical advice and take the time off. Make yourself Number One in your life when it comes to health issues.

Take the money; do some decorating if you're fit enough; do some decluttering; fill your time with worthwhile and enjoyable activities that are mentally rewarding and physically undemanding. Visit family, friends and neighbours. Make every day a worthwhile and happy one, for yourself and others.

addyann

If you have been signed off, you arent insured to be in work. As others say, if your GP has signed you off for 4 weeks, then you should be off for 4 weeks,. If you think you are well enough, GP can do a fit note for you to return, Otherwise you stay off for the 4 weeks