Return to work interview script template
Supporting information
Our Return to Work Interview Script Template streamlines conversations after absence, ensuring consistent documentation and support for employee wellbeing.
Return to work interview script
1 [Welcome]
1.1 Hello [Employee's Name], welcome back to work! I will be conducting your return to work interview today.
2 [Purpose]
2.1 The purpose of this interview is to ensure a smooth transition back into the workplace and address any concerns or needs you may have.
2.2 Before we begin, I hope you had a restful time during your leave, and I want to assure you that we are here to support your return.
2.3 How are you feeling about being back?
3 [Health and Wellbeing]
3.1 Before we discuss your role and responsibilities, I would like to inquire about your health and well-being.
3.2 How are you feeling physically and mentally?
3.3 Have there been any changes since you were last here?
We prioritise the well-being of our employees,
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What is this for?
The purpose of a return to work interview is to facilitate a smooth transition for an employee who is returning to work after a period of sick absence. The interview allows the employer or interviewer to:
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Welcome the employee back and make them feel valued and supported.
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Assess the employee's physical and mental well-being and address any concerns they may have.
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Discuss any changes or updates that may have occurred during the employee's absence.
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Clarify the employee's role and responsibilities to ensure they are aware of any adjustments or updates.
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Identify any accommodations or support the employee may need for a successful return.
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Reestablish communication and collaboration within the team and provide an opportunity for the employee to reconnect with colleagues.
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Address any questions or concerns the employee may have and offer ongoing support throughout the transition.
Overall, the purpose of the return to work interview is to create an open and supportive environment, ensure a smooth reintegration into the workplace, and address any issues that may affect the employee's well-being or performance.
Extended guidance
Employment law compliance
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Health and Safety at Work Act 1974: Places a duty on employers to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of their employees, including providing a safe and supportive return to work process.
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Equality Act 2010: Prohibits discrimination, harassment, and victimization in the workplace, including ensuring that return to work processes are fair and non-discriminatory.
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Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999: Requires employers to conduct risk assessments and take appropriate measures to protect employees' health and safety during their return to work.
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Work and Families Act 2006: Introduces the right to request flexible working arrangements, which can be considered during the return to work process to support work-life balance.
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Data Protection Act 2018: Sets out rules for the processing of personal data, ensuring that any information collected during return to work interviews is handled confidentially and in compliance with data protection principles.
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Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006: Prohibits age discrimination, ensuring that the return to work process is fair and unbiased for employees of all ages.
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Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992: Provides rights and protections for trade unions and their members, which may be relevant if trade union representatives are involved in the return to work process.
Documentation sequence
Return to work interview form template
This form should be used to record the Return to Work Interview between the manager and employee.
