Letter Inviting Employee to Sickness Absence Meeting

What is a Letter Inviting Employee to Sickness Absence Meeting?

An employer can use a letter inviting an employee to a sickness absence meeting to formally request a meeting with the employee as they prepare to return from sick leave. This meeting allows for discussing their return to work arrangements, addressing any support they may need, and ensuring a smooth transition back into their role.

 

What is the difference between a letter inviting an employee to a sickness absence meeting and a return to work letter?

A return to work letter is sent to an employee when they are ready to resume work after a prolonged absence (due to sickness, parental leave, etc.). It usually confirms the return date, any agreed-upon accommodations, and relevant HR procedures.

Unlike a letter inviting an employee to a sickness absence meeting, the return-to-work letter is usually sent once a return plan has been established, focusing on reintegration rather than discussing adjustments for an uncertain return.

 

Is it mandatory to have a letter inviting an employee to a sickness absence meeting?

No, it is not mandatory to have a letter inviting an employee to a sickness absence meeting. However, it is recommended as best practice for clarity, transparency and proper documentation.

 

Who is involved in a letter inviting an employee to a sickness absence meeting?

The document is tailored to the use of a corporate employer of varying sizes (small,medium or large) or a sole trader. The details of the employer and the employee should be entered accurately. The address of the employer should be its place of business, while the address of the employee should be the employee's residential address which the employer has on file.

The letter inviting an employee to a sickness absence meeting has been tailored for use in the jurisdictions of England and Wales, and Scotland.

 

What has to be done once a letter inviting an employee to a sickness absence meeting is ready?

Once the letter is ready, employers should ensure that the letter reaches the employee in a timely manner, either by email, postal mail, or by hand if the employee is already on site. Email is often preferred for a faster, documented delivery.

 

What should a letter inviting an employee to a sickness absence meeting seek to clarify?

A letter inviting an employee to a sickness absence meeting should seek to clarify the following:

• The reason(s) for the employee's absence;
• Where the absence is a long-term one, when the employee is likely to return to work;
• Where the absence is a short-term but intermittent absence, when the employee is likely to improve their attendance patterns at work.

 

What must a letter inviting an employee to a sickness absence meeting contain?

A letter inviting an employee to a sickness absence meeting should include the following factors such as:

• Whether the employee submitted medical evidence prior to going on sick leave.
• Whether the employee has a disability, requiring reasonable accommodations from the employer.
• Whether a gradual, phased return to work is necessary.
• The employer's established Sickness Absence Policy, which typically outlines how such meetings are conducted.

 

Applicable Law

Access to Medical Reports Act 1988

Employment Rights Act 1996

Equality Act 2010

 

Help from a lawyer

You can choose to consult a lawyer if you need help.

The lawyer can answer your questions or help you through the process. You will be offered this option when you complete the document.

 

How to modify the template?

You fill out a form. The document is created before your eyes as you respond to the questions.

At the end, you receive it in Word and PDF formats. You can modify it and reuse it.