Many employees believe they must tell their employer the specific reason that they are seeking an accommodation or leave of absence. This is not true. Employers are entitled to the “General Nature” of the illness and any restrictions/limitations which guide your accommodation need which your treating health care practitioner provides to the employer on an Abilities Form which are submitted to Abilities staff. Though the employer knows the “general nature”, supervisors do not, and are only entitled to the restrictions/limitations to be accommodated.
Workplace Accommodations are provided to employees to support their safe and early return to work (for those who were on a medical leave) or for employees who require additional support to maintain regular attendance at work. Employees do not need to have been on a Medical Leave of Absence to request a Medical Workplace Accommodation and accommodations include temporary or permanent rehabilitation support, accommodations, assistive devices or modified work that is medically supported.
To request a Medical Workplace Accommodation employees must have an abilities form completed by their treating Health Care Provider and returned to the Abilities Office via email at abilities.office@peelsb.com
For leaves of absence: Permanent employees have short term and long term disability options available (sick days). Casual and long term casuals could consider applying for Employment Insurance Sickness Benefits. EI sickness benefits will cover you for up to 15 weeks if you are temporarily not able to work because of illness, including mental illness. Find out more about applying for EI Sickness Benefits.
For more information, please review the attached documents.