Three quarters of staff returning from sick leave require employer support, finds DWP/Legal & General analysis

Nearly three quarters of people off work due to illness required adjustments in the workplace to help their return, an analysis of the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) Fit for Work Service pilots by Legal & General has shown.

Half of those who returned to work with support from the service reported changed hours of work, whilst two fifths also reported changed duties and reduced workloads.

The findings show returning to work from illness is often possible but usually requires specialist adjustments and support.

Commenting on the finding, Diane Buckley, MD of Legal & General Group Protection, said: “Returning people to the workplace is much easier with the right support in place. Employees were of the opinion that with the right adjustments they can return more quickly.”