A friend of mine has been off work for a number of months recovering from surgery. THis company doctor has said he is now fit to return to work, but not in his old role (which involved working shifts outside in the cold). The organisation he works for is a large one with jobs he could do, but no current vacancies. He has been told he must apply for jobs as they become available. He is now struggling on half pay and suffering stress (bording on depression) as a result of the uncertainty which may be slowing his recovery. Does his employer have a duty to find him alternative employment? If so will he be entitled to the same pay as he previously received once he takes up a new position?
Catherine Moss