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Return to Work Interview Record

Structured return-to-work interview form for GP practice staff following any period of sickness absence. Reduces repeat absences and demonstrates duty of care.

## Return to Work Interview Record

A return to work interview should be conducted for ALL absences — including one-day absences. This is the most effective tool for reducing sickness absence rates.

**This template covers:**

- Date of interview and interviewer name

- Dates of absence and reason given

- Whether the reason was work-related

- Current fitness status

- Any reasonable adjustments needed

- Referral to Occupational Health (if applicable)

- Both signatures

**Guidance for managers:**

- Conduct the interview on the first day of return

- Keep the tone supportive, not interrogative

- If absences are pattern-based (e.g. always Mondays), explore this sensitively

- Document everything — this protects both parties

**Trigger points for formal absence management:** Bradford Factor score above 100, or 3+ separate absences in rolling 12 months.

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Added 9 July 2026 · 0 views