United Kingdom flag

In today’s fast-paced work environment, understanding your rights and obligations when it comes to sickness absence is crucial. For Tesco employees in the UK, the Tesco Sickness Policy 2023 outlines what is expected from both the employer and employee during times of illness. This comprehensive guide is designed to help you navigate through the policy, ensuring you know how to proceed should you find yourself unable to work due to sickness.

Introduction to Tesco’s Approach to Employee Well-being

Tesco, one of the UK’s leading retailers, places a significant emphasis on the health and well-being of its employees. Recognizing that employees are the backbone of their operation, Tesco has developed a sickness policy that aims to support staff through periods of ill health, while also maintaining the smooth operation of their business. This guide will walk you through the Tesco Sickness Policy 2023, highlighting key points and actions you need to take to ensure compliance and support.

Summary of Contend

At Contend, we’re revolutionizing legal services with our AI-driven platform, offering clear, concise, and reliable legal guidance. Understanding your legal rights in the workplace can be complex, but our AI legal experts are here to help you navigate through these challenges, including understanding policies like Tesco’s sickness policy.

How can I ensure I’m fully compliant with Tesco’s sickness policy?

Understanding the Tesco Sickness Policy 2023

The Tesco Sickness Policy 2023 is designed to be fair and supportive, ensuring employees who are unwell can take the time they need to recover, without worrying about their job security. Here’s what you need to know:

Reporting Your Sickness

The first step in the process is to report your sickness. Tesco requires employees to notify their manager as soon as possible, preferably before their shift starts. This allows the management team to make necessary adjustments to cover your absence.

Short-term vs. Long-term Sickness

The policy differentiates between short-term and long-term sickness. Short-term sickness is typically defined as absences lasting less than four weeks, while long-term sickness extends beyond this period. The support and documentation required may vary depending on the length of your absence.

Supporting Evidence

For absences longer than seven days, Tesco requires a fit note (formerly known as a sick note) from your GP or a medical professional. This document should outline your condition and any recommended adjustments or time off work.

Do I need a fit note for my specific situation?
Employment: tesco sickness policy 2023

Check if You Can Get Sick Pay

One of the key concerns for employees during sickness absence is their pay. Tesco adheres to the Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) regulations, providing financial support to eligible employees. The eligibility criteria for SSP include:

  • Having an employment contract with Tesco
  • Being sick for at least four consecutive days (including non-working days)
  • Earning an average of at least £120 per week (before tax)

Tesco’s Company Sick Pay Scheme

In addition to SSP, Tesco may offer a Company Sick Pay Scheme, which could provide further financial support depending on your length of service and employment terms. It’s important to check your contract or employee handbook for details specific to your situation.

Do I qualify for Tesco’s Company Sick Pay Scheme?

Navigating Through Your Sickness Absence

During your sickness absence, communication is key. Keeping in touch with your manager and HR department can help facilitate a smoother process for both parties. If your absence extends into long-term sickness, Tesco may require periodic updates on your condition and expected return to work date.

Returning to Work

Upon your return to work, a ‘return to work’ meeting with your manager is standard procedure. This meeting is an opportunity to discuss any ongoing health issues and potential adjustments to your work environment or duties to facilitate your return.

What adjustments can I request during my return to work meeting?

How Contend Can Help

Understanding and navigating through the Tesco Sickness Policy 2023 can be daunting, especially when dealing with health issues. At Contend, our AI-driven platform is designed to provide you with legal guidance and support tailored to your specific situation. Whether you’re seeking advice on your rights under the policy, need assistance understanding sick pay entitlements, or require support for a return-to-work plan, Contend’s legal experts are here to help.

How do my rights under the Tesco Sickness Policy apply to my situation?

Conclusion: Ensuring a Healthy Return

The Tesco Sickness Policy 2023 is structured to support employees through periods of ill health, balancing the need for rest and recovery with the operational needs of the business. By understanding your rights and obligations under this policy, you can ensure a smoother process during your sickness absence and upon your return to work.

For personalized legal advice and support related to the Tesco Sickness Policy or any other employment-related inquiries, chat now with Contend’s legal expert. Let us help you navigate through your legal concerns with confidence.

For more info, check out some of our related articles:


Check if Contend can help you with your issue

Solve your legal question quickly
and easily with Contend.



This material is for general information only and does not constitute
tax, legal or any other form of advice. You should not rely on any
information contained herein to make (or refrain from making) any
decisions. Always obtain independent, professional advice for your
own particular situation. Contend Inc is not regulated by the
Solicitors Regulation Authority.