Evidence shows that the longer a person spends away from work following an injury, the less likely they are to return.
A strong and supportive relationship between the worker and their people leader plays a big part in recovery and engagement in the workplace, but you aren’t alone as you work through this process. Work closely with your internal return to work coordinator, typically part of the People & Culture team, to get expert guidance and advice.
Here’s five things you can do as a people leader:
- Check in regularly and show genuine care.
- Ask how the worker with an injury is doing and reassure them of your support.
- Agree on preferred contact methods (phone call, text message or Teams meeting) and frequency while they are off work.
- Help them stay connected through Teams meetings, social events or training.
- If needed, arrange for another leader to maintain contact based on the worker with an injury’s preferences.
- You don’t need to be an expert, your return to work coordinator is there to provide expert advice and guidance.
- Act quickly to help resolve issues like payment or approval delays.
- Your active involvement helps prevent unnecessary setbacks.
- Aim for recovery at work with modified duties or adjusted hours.
- Collaborate with your team member to identify tasks they can do within the team or organisation.
- Speak with your return to work coordinator about support options such as equipment or training, or other suitable roles internally.
- Develop a Recover at Work Plan together with your return to work coordinator and team member with an injury.
- Plan their first day, week and month, including invites to regular team meetings and events to ensure success.
- Talk with them before they return to identify what they might need and proactively address any issues.
- Let them know what’s been arranged and that you’re there to support them.
- Check-in after their first day and review the plan after the first week.
- Maintain regular communication with the worker with an injury, return to work coordinator and your own leader, and take a flexible approach where possible.
- Address concerns or barriers early.
- If progress stalls, speak with your return to work coordinator – they can coordinate extra support like rehabilitation services or case conferences.
Read the Premier's Memorandum on the NSW Government Return to Work Strategy
Look after your own wellbeing
It’s important to consider your own wellbeing while supporting a worker with an injury to recover. There are many resources available to you at any time, which are free and confidential, including:
EAP Manager Assist
- Call 1300 687 327 or visit convergeinternational.com.au to use the ‘Live Chat service
- Coaching advice on having difficult conversations, including how to support a worker with an injury.
- Support for your own wellbeing and mental health, including burnout.
Beyond Blue
- Visit Looking after your mental health at work for practical tools to stay well at work
- Tips on Supporting someone at work including how to encourage them to talk to a professional.
- Access a free, confidential online webchat for immediate support.
Want to know more about recovering from a work-related injury?
Speak to your return to work coordinator for expert guidance and advice, or contact SIRA at www.sira.nsw.gov.au or on 13 74 72.