Taking on a employee that is on sick

[Deleted member 237683]

Hi guys.

I've been asked by someone if I could offer them some part time work.

The problem is, he is on sick and doctors say he can not work. But the jobcentre is pushing him to get work or his dole money stops.

He has a serious back problem and is awaiting surgery. The job in question is physical.

Normally I wouldn't think twice about this, but he is already fully trained in the field and can earn me money from day 1.

Who's to blame if he hurts himself working for me? Not worth the risk?

 

[OldWelshGuy]

if the doctor has said he is unfit to work then he can't work. he will be sent for an evaluation when they will decide if he is fit or not, at that point you would be OK to employ him.

 

[Sarah from LoatesHR]

I agree with OldWelshGuy if his GP has said he is unfit for work I would want evidence from either an Occ Health Assessment or a GP signing him as fit for work. Your insurers may have a problem if he subsequently as an accident at work especially if related to a pre existing condition. I would also want some insight from an OH professional about his ability to undertake the role especially if it is physical in nature.

The government has recently rolled out a scheme called Fit for Work aimed at smaller employers accessing Occ Health. It is primarily targeted for employees who have been absent from work for more than 4 weeks, but you can self refer so this could be an idea to follow up? fitforwork.org. It is however on a phased roll out across the UK currently so access will depend where you live.