The Return-to-Work Manager’s Guide

Supporting an employee back to work after a mental health related absence is about more than arranging their first day back.

Managers need to know how to prepare, have supportive conversations, identify potential barriers, consider adjustments and provide ongoing support - without making the process more difficult for the employee or themselves.

The Return-to-Work Manager’s Guide is a practical resource designed to help managers approach return-to-work processes with confidence, consistency and compassion.

Inside, you'll find guidance on:

• Preparing for an employee's return, including appropriate welfare contact during absence.

• Having an effective and supportive return-to-work conversation.

• Navigating difficult or sensitive discussions.

• Considering phased returns and temporary workplace adjustments.

• Identifying workplace factors that may have contributed to an employee's absence.

• Recording agreed actions and following up appropriately.

• Monitoring progress and supporting a safe, sustainable return to work.

Also included are practical tools for managers:

• A pre-return checklist.

• Return-to-work conversation prompts.

• An action tracker.

• A phased-return planning tool.

Whether you're supporting someone returning after a short period of absence or a longer period of work-related stress, this guide will help you take a more structured, thoughtful and supportive approach.

Format: Instant digital PDF download.

This resource is for educational and management development purposes. It is not a substitute for legal, medical, occupational health or organisation-specific HR advice.