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.

  • HCPC-registered clinicians
  • Independent & impartial
  • GDPR-compliant
  • UK-wide
  • Employee consent-based
01
~10 minutes

You submit a referral

Return Well's team reviews your case for completeness, then broadcasts it to eligible, verified clinicians with the right specialism.

What you do

    Complete a structured online intake form
    Describe the employee's role, absence, and your concerns
    Confirm the employee's consent to be contacted
02
Typically same day

A verified clinician accepts

The clinician contacts the employee directly to introduce themselves and confirm availability.

What you do

    You'll be notified when a clinician accepts the case
    Review the clinician's profile and credentials in your portal
03
Within 5 working days of acceptance

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

    Respond to any queries from the clinician via your portal
    Optionally provide additional context or documents
04
2–3 working days post-assessment

You receive a clear report

The case is marked complete. All documentation is stored securely and available for audit purposes.

What you do

    Review the report in your secure portal
    Download or share with HR and line managers
    Follow the return-to-work recommendations
    Request a follow-up if needed

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
  • Confidentiality maintained, you receive the report, not the full 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
  • A copy of the report if they request it

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

Most reports are delivered within 3–5 working days, 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 HCPC/NMC-registered 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

Traditional Occupational HealthOften requires ongoing contracts
Return WellPay per case
Traditional Occupational HealthWaiting times can be several weeks
Return WellReports typically within 3–5 working days
Traditional Occupational HealthOften designed around larger organisations
Return WellDesigned for SMEs and growing businesses
Traditional Occupational HealthCan be difficult to access quickly
Return WellSimple online referrals
Traditional Occupational HealthClinical advice can be broad
Return WellPractical workplace adjustment recommendations for managers

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 report delivery, most cases complete within 10–15 working days.

What's included in the report?

The report includes a clinical summary, assessment of the employee's fitness for work, specific return-to-work recommendations (e.g. phased return, adjusted duties, reasonable adjustments), and any relevant clinical observations. It does not include confidential clinical notes.

Does the employee have to consent?

Yes. Employee consent is required before a case can proceed. This is confirmed during the intake process. The clinician will also confirm consent again at the start of the assessment.

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.

Can the employee see the report?

The report is delivered to you as the referrer. Employees may request a copy directly under data protection legislation. Return Well recommends discussing the report's contents with the employee as part of a return-to-work meeting.

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.

Download the guide (PDF)

Ready to submit your first case?

It takes about 10 minutes to complete the intake form. No subscription needed, pay per assessment.

Discuss a Case