How Often Should You Contact Your Employer when on Sick Leave?

Why It Matters

Clear responsibilities prevent misunderstandings, protect employee rights, and help organizations manage long‑term absence efficiently.

Key Takeaways

• Employer must initiate contact during employee’s long‑term sick leave.
• Employee must provide doctor’s fit notes but not proactively call.
• Employees should engage when employer reaches out, unless medically advised otherwise.
• Maintaining communication eases reintegration and protects employment relationships.
• Failure to cooperate can hinder return‑to‑work and trigger disputes.

Summary

The video addresses a common question: how often should an employee on long‑term sick leave get in touch with their employer. Contrary to popular belief, the legal and practical burden of initiating contact rests with the employer, not the employee.

Employers are required to make welfare calls and keep the absent worker informed about any workplace developments. The employee’s duty is limited to supplying regular fit‑notes or medical certificates that document the condition’s progress. Proactive outreach by the employee is not mandatory unless a doctor specifically advises against contact.

The presenter cites case law and official guidance confirming the employer’s obligation, noting that employees should nonetheless cooperate with any reasonable calls or face‑to‑face meetings. Exceptions arise only when medical advice explicitly restricts communication, in which case the employee must inform the employer.

Maintaining this two‑way dialogue smooths the eventual return‑to‑work, preserves the employment relationship, and reduces the risk of disputes or statutory sick‑pay challenges. Both parties benefit from clear expectations and documented interactions.

Original Description

On sick leave, the employer should.

But there's one thing you still must do.

Would you answer the call?

#SickLeave #EmploymentLaw #WorkplaceRights