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What if I’m too sick to keep working?

Understanding your rights, options, and what happens if your health affects your job.

🤒 It’s okay to ask for help

If you're feeling very unwell, either physically or emotionally, and it's affecting your ability to work, you are not alone.

Many workers go through a time in their life when their health makes working difficult. In South Africa, the law protects you, and your employer must handle the situation fairly and respectfully.

⚖️ What does the law say?

Your employer can only end your job for health reasons if:

  • Your illness is serious or long-term

  • You’re no longer able to do your work

  • They’ve gone through a proper process

  • They’ve given you time to explain your side

  • They pay your notice if your job ends

This is called termination for incapacity, it is not the same as being fired for doing something wrong.

🛌 You don’t have to leave right away

You may be able to:

  • Take extra unpaid sick leave

  • Come back later when you’re stronger

  • Change your work days or tasks

Your employer must look at these options before deciding to end the job.

🗣️ What should I do if I’m very sick?

You should:

  1. Tell your employer honestly about how you’re feeling

  2. Try to get a doctor’s note or report

  3. Ask about options for recovery time or lighter work

  4. Stay in touch, don’t just disappear

If your employer uses AskMandla, you can also message us directly. We’ll support both of you through the process.

📄 What happens if your job ends?

If there are no options and your health means you can’t work anymore:

  • Your employer must give you written notice

  • You must be paid for your notice period (even if you’re too sick to work)

  • AskMandla will help prepare your UIF forms

💡 You may be able to claim UIF illness or unemployment benefits.

📲 What AskMandla can do for you

We can:

  • Explain your options in your language

  • Help you talk to your employer

  • Keep all your payslips and records safe

  • Help you with UIF documents when needed

You can message us anytime on WhatsApp, it’s private and free.

💛 Your health comes first

If you’re not okay, you deserve time and support to heal. Whether you go back to work later or not, AskMandla is here to help protect your rights and guide you through it.