Ask the expert: Long-term absence during probation
Posted by Matthew Whelan, Esther Smith in Employment law on Tue, 29/09/2009 - 11:03
We have an employee who started work with us in a management position. Her references were not great but we decided we would give her a chance. She worked for two weeks and then went off sick, is now in the eighth week of absence and has submitted a medical certificate for a further four weeks. Her medical certificates state the reason for absence as 'investigations - awaiting results'.
I've asked her why she can't return to work and she says her doctor advises against it. She admits that she does not feel unwell, just worried about the results and was well enough to go on holiday for two weeks.
Her job is office-based in a pleasant environment. She has kept us informed of the investigations but has never asked how things are going, whether there is anything she can do from home, etc.
I want to request an occupational health report but the employee has not returned the authorisation form. What can I do if she continues to elongate the process? My gut feel is to dismiss and start the recruitment process again - is this dangerous territory?
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