Planning a phased return to work with your doctor and employer

By Chris Salmon | Updated: September 16, 2025

After an injury at work, you may not be ready to return to your full duties straight away. A phased return to work allows you to come back gradually, with adjusted hours or responsibilities, while you continue your recovery. This plan should be agreed with your doctor and employer to ensure your health and rights are protected.

At a glance

A phased return involves reduced hours, lighter duties, or temporary adjustments.
Your doctor can provide a 'fit note' with recommendations for your return.
Employers should consider occupational health advice and legal obligations.
A clear plan protects your health and can support any injury claim.

What is a phased return to work?

A phased return is when you go back to work in stages rather than all at once. This might mean working part-time hours, taking on different tasks, or having extra breaks. The aim is to balance your recovery with a safe reintroduction to the workplace.

The role of your doctor

Your GP will play an important role in setting the pace of your return. They may issue a 'fit note' stating that you are fit for work with adjustments. The note could recommend:

Reduced working hours.
Modified duties that avoid strain or risk.
Adapted equipment to support your recovery.
Temporary restrictions on specific tasks.

Working with your employer

Your employer should use your doctor’s recommendations and, if available, occupational health advice to plan your phased return. Employers have a duty of care under health and safety law to ensure you are not put at further risk.

Discussions with your employer should cover:

The length of the phased return period.
What tasks you can and cannot do safely.
Any adjustments to your work environment.
How your progress will be reviewed.

Legal protections

Under the Equality Act 2010, employers may be required to make reasonable adjustments if your injury has long-term effects. Failure to do so could amount to discrimination.

Real-world example

A warehouse worker injured his back lifting heavy goods. His doctor recommended a phased return, starting with 3 days per week on light duties. His employer agreed, providing lifting aids and temporary office-based work. This allowed the worker to recover gradually without losing his job or worsening his injury.

How a phased return supports your claim

A phased return is not just about health. Records of adjustments and medical recommendations can also support an injury claim by showing:

The lasting impact of your accident.
Any ongoing limitations or loss of earnings.
Your efforts to return to work responsibly.

External references

HSE: Return to work after sickness absence - provides guidance on planning a phased return to work, including employer and doctor coordination.
Acas: Returning to work after absence - offers advice on managing a phased return to work, including adjustments for employees recovering from injuries.
GOV.UK: Working when injured - explains support options and employer responsibilities for employees returning to work after a workplace injury.
NHS: Rehabilitation after a work injury - details rehabilitation processes, including medical guidance for phased returns to work.

About the author

Chris Salmon is a legal commentator and co-founder of Quittance Legal Services. He has written extensively about workplace accidents, employment rights and the claims process. Chris's work has been cited in national media and he regularly contributes practical guidance to help injured workers understand their options.

More about Chris and WAAC

Last reviewed September 2025 by Chris Salmon

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