The process
A clear, managed process from day one
From your first referral to a delivered report, Return Well handles the entire assessment process, matching you with a verified UK clinician with the right specialism, managing the case, and delivering a clear recommendation.
- Registered, verified clinicians
- Independent & impartial
- GDPR-compliant
- UK-wide
- Employee consent-based
You submit a referral
Return Well reviews your case for completeness, then selects the clinician whose profession, experience and specialisms fit it.
What you do
The selected clinician accepts
The clinician contacts the employee directly to introduce themselves and confirm availability.
What you do
Assessment is conducted
The clinician conducts a comprehensive telephone or video assessment with the employee, covering their health, role demands, and barriers to return.
What you do
The report is checked, reviewed, then released
Return Well checks every report before your employee sees it. Your employee then reviews it and can ask for factual corrections before consenting to its release to you. If they decline, we tell you that the assessment took place and that release was declined.
What you do
What to expect
A Return Well assessment is designed to be straightforward for both you and your employee.
As the employer
- A single portal to submit and track all cases
- Email notifications at every key milestone
- A structured, professional report with clear recommendations
- Full audit trail for HR and legal purposes
- The report, once your employee has reviewed it and consented to its release, not the clinician's assessment notes
For the employee
- An initial contact from the assigned clinician explaining the process
- A telephone or video assessment at a time that suits them
- A safe, confidential conversation focused on their wellbeing
- No obligation to return before they are ready, the clinician is independent
- The chance to review the report, and ask for corrections, before anything is released to their employer
Why employers choose Return Well
Fast, independent clinical guidance, without the complexity
Return Well gives employers fast, independent clinical guidance without the delays, contracts or complexity often associated with traditional occupational health. We focus on practical recommendations that help employers support employees confidently and make informed workplace decisions.
Fast turnaround
Reports are usually released within 5 working days of the assessment, helping employers act quickly.
No contracts or retainers
Simple pay-per-case pricing with no ongoing commitment, making workplace health support accessible and affordable for SMEs.
Independent clinicians
Assessments are completed by registered, independent clinicians with experience supporting people in work.
Practical recommendations
Clear, manager-ready advice on workplace adjustments, return to work and supporting employees to stay in work.
Designed for SMEs
Fast, affordable workplace health assessments without the cost or complexity of a retained occupational health service.
Remote and UK-wide
Secure online assessments mean employees can be seen anywhere in the UK without travelling.
Why SMEs choose Return Well
Return Well complements traditional occupational health by giving SMEs fast, independent clinical guidance when they need practical answers quickly. Whether an employee is struggling at work, off sick or returning after absence, our assessments help employers make informed decisions without the need for an ongoing occupational health contract.
FAQ
Common questions
How long does the whole process take?
From submission to the released report, most cases complete within 10 working days. The assessment usually takes place within 5 working days of submission, and the report is usually released within 5 working days of the assessment.
What's included in the report?
The report sets out how the employee's health is affecting their work, what they can currently manage and, where relevant, their readiness to return, with specific recommendations such as a phased return, adjusted duties or workplace adjustments. It focuses on work, so it doesn't include the clinician's confidential notes or personal details shared in confidence.
Does the employee have to consent?
Yes, at more than one point. You confirm the employee has agreed to be contacted when you submit the case, and the clinician confirms their consent at the start of the assessment. The employee also reviews the report and consents before it is released to you.
Is the clinician independent?
Yes. Every clinician on the Return Well platform operates as an independent practitioner. They are not employed by you and have no obligation to recommend return to work, their role is to provide an objective professional assessment.
What if I need more than one assessment?
You can submit multiple cases at any time. Volume pricing is available for organisations that regularly refer employees, contact us to discuss.
Does the employee see the report?
Yes, before you do. Return Well checks every report first. Your employee then reviews it, can ask for factual corrections, and is asked to consent to its release. Once they consent, it's released to you. If they decline, we'll tell you that the assessment took place and that release was declined. The full fee still applies, because the assessment and report have been completed (section 7 of our terms).
When should you refer an employee?
Our Employer Guide is a practical reference for HR teams and managers, when a clinical workplace assessment helps, when it doesn't, a referral checklist, and what every report includes. Written in plain English.
Situations we help with
Find the page for your situation
Ready to submit your first case?
It takes about 10 minutes to complete the intake form. No subscription needed, pay per assessment.
Not ready? Discuss a Case First