Reasonable Adjustments to Sickness Absence Policies

When an employee is absent due to sickness, employers need to make allowances and adjustments, says the Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT).

Recently a tribunal was held by EAT after finding the HMRC had issued a warning to an asthmatic employee who took time off due to an illness, but did not made any adjustments for the employee.

EAT stated that allowances need to be made for someone whose disability increases their chances of contracting sicknesses or illnesses that are deemed ordinary to anyone else.

Was it fair to issue a warning to someone who would have put their health in jeopardy by returning to work?

Things like the nature of the illness, how long they have worked for the company and any other records of absences should all be taken into account before a warning is issued.

If you think a warning you have received was unfair you are entitled to seek legal advice or initiate a dispute.

Our specialised solicitors can talk to you about your options and help you with any questions you may have.

Please call us on 0845 603 0708 or complete the form on the right and we'll call you back.

National Solicitors

Tonbridge Employment Specialists