I am returning to the UK after a holiday from a country that is on the amber list. I am fully vaccinated which makes me exempt from quarantine and self-isolation. My employer insists that I can return to work no sooner than after receiving a day 2 test result. Should that time be classed as sick leave or unpaid leave?
Thank you for your question. In the first instance please check your Annual Holiday Policy and Procedure as this should support you in this area. We have a policy in place that details the requirements people must follow with each of the red, amber and green travel lists, as per the current government guidelines (see here).
It also details that any quarantine periods, as a result of traveling, will be treated as unpaid absence and staff are not entitled to statutory sick pay. Holiday entitlement would be an option to consider to use in this instance, where possible, while you are off work. However, your local policy may be different.