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Returning to work after an absence, whether due to illness, maternity leave, or other reasons, requires careful planning and clear communication. Having the right forms, templates, and policies in place ensures a smooth transition for both employees and employers. This guide provides an overview of the essential resources needed to facilitate aa smooth return-to-work process.

Returning to work?

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Types of templates and forms for returning to work

When it comes to returning to work, there are various types of programmes and documents that can help streamline the process. These include:

Return to work forms

Return to work form from doctor: A document provided by a doctor confirming that an employee is fit to return to work.

Employee return to work form: Used by employers to record the details of an employee’s return after an absence.

Return to work authorisation form: Authorises an employee’s return to work under specified conditions.

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Interview templates

Return to work interview template for employers: Guides the discussion between the employer and employee regarding the return-to-work process.

Back to work interview template: This template is focused on employees returning after an absence, and outlines the type of questions they can expect.

02

Letters

Return to work letter from doctor: A formal letter from a healthcare provider stating that an employee is cleared to return to work.

Return to work letter template: Used by employees to notify their employers of their intention to return to work.

Return to work light duty letter: Outlines the conditions under which an employee will return to work on light duty.

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Policies and plans

Return to office policy template: Defines the company’s policies for employees returning to the office.

Phased return to work template: Details a gradual return to work schedule for employees who may need a period of adjustment.

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When do I need to use return to work forms and templates?

  • Sick Leave: Use return to work forms and letters from doctors to ensure employees are fit to return.
  • Maternity Leave: Employ return to work plans and phased return templates to support employees transitioning back to work after maternity leave.
  • General Absence: Utilise return to work interview templates and authorisation forms to standardise the return process.

Returning to work after sick leave templates

Returning to work after sick leave requires specific documentation to ensure both legal compliance and the health of the employee.

Return-to-work form from doctor

This form confirms that the employee is medically cleared to return to work after their sick leave.

Download template: return to work form from doctor

Return-to-work certification form

This form is often required by employers to document the medical clearance of an employee before they return to work after sick leave.

Download template: return to work certification form

Employee return-to-work form

Captures details of the employee’s condition after sick leave, any work restrictions, and plans for their return to work.

Download template: employee return to work form

For more information on returning to work after sick leave, read our detailed blog post: 

Blog post: returning to work after sick leave

Returning to work after maternity leave templates

Transitioning back to work after maternity leave can be a challenging experience for many new mothers, as it often involves balancing new childcare responsibilities with returning to a professional environment. Ensuring a smooth and supportive transition is crucial, and this can be significantly aided by using proper templates and letters. These resources provide clear communication channels between the employee and employer, help outline expectations, and offer structured plans that address the unique needs and concerns of new parents re-entering the workforce.

Return-to-work email to colleagues

This email template notifies colleagues of your return to work, provides updates, and helps with your reintegration into the team.

Email template: return to work email to colleagues

Return-to-work email to clients

It’s important to inform any external clients of your return, too. This template informs clients of the your return to work, re-establishes your professional relationships, and ensures continuity in client services.

Email template: return to work email to clients

Return to work letter to employer

Some companies require a formal letter to notify them of your return to work after maternity. This template formally notifies the employer of your intent to return to work, outlining any specific needs or considerations you might need, including a phased return or flexible working hours. 

Letter template: return to work letter to employer

Phased return to work template

A phased return to work is a structured approach that allows employees to gradually resume their work duties after a prolonged absence, such as after maternity leave or recovery from illness.

This method helps employees transition back to full duties at a pace that accommodates their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. The template outlines a step-by-step plan, specifying reduced hours, lighter duties, or flexible working arrangements that increase incrementally over a set period. This approach not only supports the employee’s adjustment back into the workplace but also ensures that the return is sustainable and productive for both the employee and the employer.

The phased return to work schedule typically includes milestones for reassessment to ensure the plan is effective and to make necessary adjustments based on the employee’s progress.

Template: phased return to work

Extending maternity leave request template

You might be thinking about extending your maternity leave for several important reasons.

Recovery from childbirth, especially if there were complications or a C-section, might necessitate additional time to heal. Your newborn’s health, particularly in cases of premature birth or medical issues, may require your continued presence and care.

Extending maternity leave also allows for more bonding time, which is crucial for the child’s emotional and psychological development. Additionally, securing reliable childcare can take time, and an extended leave ensures you return to work with dependable arrangements in place.

For breastfeeding mothers, additional leave can facilitate continuing breastfeeding, providing essential nutrients and fostering a stronger immune system for the baby. Lastly, addressing postpartum depression or other mental health concerns may require more time off to manage effectively.

This template provides a structured format for explaining these reasons, proposing a new return date, and detailing any supporting medical or personal considerations.

Template: request to extend your maternity leave

For more information on returning to work after maternity leave, read our detailed blog post: 

Blog post: returning to work after maternity leave

Return to work interview templates

Interview questions

This template outlines potential interview questions that you might be asked when returning to work.

Download interview questions

How to prepare for an interiew

Our blog post provides a structured guide on how to prepare for a return-to-work interview, ensuring your preparation covers all necessary points so that you feel as confident as possible going in.

Read our return to work interview blog post

Best interview questions to ask the interviewer

This template outlines the best questions to ask during a return-to-work interview to ensure the company can accommodate your needs. An interview is a two-way street, and it’s important to gather information that will help you transition back to work smoothly.

Download interview questions

Return to work templates for employers

Return-to-work policy

This template establishes clear guidelines for the return-to-work process, outlining the steps employees and managers should follow. It includes details on eligibility, procedures for phased returns, accommodations for medical conditions, and employee responsibilities. Having a well-defined policy helps create a consistent approach and ensures all employees are treated fairly.

Download policy template

Return-to-work email 

This template is used to communicate return-to-work plans and policies to employees. It provides a structured format for notifying employees about their return date, any required documentation, and important updates on workplace policies or changes. Clear communication through email ensures that employees are well-informed and prepared for their return.

Download email template

Return-to-work interview questions

For employers who want to make sure they’re asking compassionate questions, this template offers a detailed set of questions to ask during a return-to-work interview, aimed at facilitating a smooth and supportive transition.

Download interview questions

How ivee supports your return to work

At ivee, we specialise in helping individuals returning to work find roles with the flexibility they need. We understand the unique challenges that come with re-entering the workforce, and we carefully vet job opportunities to ensure they offer the right flexibility, support, and culture.

Whether you’re looking for remote work, part-time positions, or roles within mission-driven companies, ivee provides a curated list of job opportunities that align with your needs and values. Our platform connects you with employers who have robust policies and a commitment to fostering a supportive work environment, ensuring a smoother and more confident transition back to work.

Here are our top job picks for women returning to work:

Returning to work?

Remote roles

Offering flexibility and a balanced lifestyle.

Hybrid roles

Combining office collaboration with flexible remote work.

Join the ivee community!

Join the ivee community!

Join our Facebook group. Whether you’re looking to reconnect with like-minded returners, seek advice on returning to work after maternity leave, or share your experiences, our Facebook community is here to help you navigate your journey back into the workforce.

You’ll find:

👉 Latest regulatory changes regarding maternity leave

👉 CV templates for women returning to work

👉 Latest industry updates

👉 Resources and guides to help you on your job hunt

👉 Confidence-building events, webinars and advice on all aspects of returning to work

Our Facebook community

The ivee vine

Join now!
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Conclusion

Navigating the return-to-work process can be challenging for both employees and employers. With the right templates and policies in place, this transition can be made smoother, more efficient, and more supportive for everyone involved.

From clear communication through return-to-work emails to structured interviews and comprehensive policies, each element plays a crucial role in ensuring a successful reintegration into the workplace.

By leveraging these resources, employers can demonstrate their commitment to their employees’ well-being and productivity, while employees can feel confident and supported in their return. Sign up with ivee today to access a wide range of templates, join our community for shared experiences and advice, and explore job opportunities tailored for those returning to work. 

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