Phased return to work
A phased return helps someone build back up to work gradually.
It can mean fewer hours, different duties or a lighter workload for a period of time. The employer and employee should agree the plan and review how it is working.
What it is
What is a phased return to work?
Acas describes a phased return as a gradual return after absence. Someone might start on reduced hours, do different work or have a lighter workload.
The right arrangement depends on the person and the job. A plan that works for desk-based work may not work for a physical or customer-facing role.
Plan the return
Agree what changes, who does what, and when you will review it.
Use the fit note or occupational-health advice if there is any. Then translate that advice into practical changes at work.
- 01Current capacityWhat can the person manage now?
- 02Work demandsWhich duties, hours or conditions are hardest?
- 03Starting pointAgree initial hours, duties and workload.
- 04ProgressionDecide what can increase and when.
- 05SupportAdd adjustments, breaks or other support.
- 06ReviewCheck what is helping and change the plan if needed.
Free calculator
Draft the weekly hours.
If hours are part of the phased return, start with a simple schedule. The calculator spreads the increase evenly across the number of weeks you choose.
The calculator does not decide what hours are medically suitable. Use it to draft an arrangement for discussion.
How long it lasts
There is no fixed length for a phased return.
Acas says the length should depend on the employee's circumstances and be agreed between the employer and employee. A fit note may also suggest how long a phased return should last.
Treat the review date as part of the plan. If the return is too fast, too slow or the wrong duties are being used, change it rather than following the original schedule blindly.
Beyond the hours
A full return-to-work plan connects the hours to the job.
The £27 Return-to-Work Planner is being built to connect barriers, job demands, adjustments, duties, actions and review points in one plan.