Can a Civil Service Disciplinary Investigation Continue While I Am Off Sick?
Sickness Absence During a Civil Service Disciplinary Investigation
Hello,
I am currently involved in a disciplinary investigation and have now been signed off sick because the situation has seriously affected my mental health.
My manager says the investigation will continue and I have been invited to a fact-finding meeting while my fit note is still active. I do not feel well enough to attend a long meeting or deal with unexpected questions, but I am worried that refusing will allow them to make a decision without hearing my side.
Can the department continue the investigation while I am off sick? Should the meeting be postponed until I return, or can I ask to respond in writing or attend with adjustments?
I want to participate properly without making my health worse or appearing uncooperative.
Quick Answer
Sickness absence does not automatically stop a disciplinary investigation. The practical question is whether you are fit to participate fairly and whether the department should postpone, adjust the meeting, obtain medical advice or allow another form of response.
Read our Sickness Absence During Disciplinary or Performance Management guide to plan the health and disciplinary processes together.
Need help with your own situation? Visit Get Tailored Advice or browse more questions in Advice.
What I Would Do If I Was Too Unwell for a Disciplinary Meeting but Needed My Account Heard
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Continue reading to see how I would evidence fitness to participate, propose workable alternatives and prevent silence from being treated as the whole response.
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