Supported Return to Training (SuppoRTT): which forms to complete and when

What this article is about
This article explains which SuppoRTT forms may be needed before, during and after time away from training.

Who this is for
Doctors and dentists in training who are planning time away from training, are currently absent, or are returning after absence.

What you need to know

• SuppoRTT supports trainees before, during and after a period away from training.
• The Pre-Absence form helps identify planned absence and support needs before leaving and on return.
• The Pre-Return form helps plan a safe and supported return before you come back to training.
• The Follow-up form helps review whether the return plan is working and whether further support is needed.
• SuppoRTT may apply after OOP, parental leave, long-term sickness absence, career breaks or other significant periods away.
• SuppoRTT does not replace employer sickness absence, family leave, HR, occupational health, OOP or rota processes.
• Return planning should involve your educational supervisor, Training Programme Director and employer where appropriate.

What to do

1. Complete the Pre-Absence form as early as possible if your absence is planned.
2. Keep in touch with your programme team during absence where appropriate.
3. Complete the Pre-Return form before your expected return date.
4. Discuss your return plan with your educational supervisor or Training Programme Director.
5. Contact your employer about rota, HR, occupational health or return to work requirements.
6. Complete the Follow-up form after return if requested.
7. Raise concerns early if your return is not going as planned.

If this does not work
If you are unsure which form applies, raise a query through the PGMDE Support Portal and explain your absence or return date.

Who to contact
Use the PGMDE Support Portal for SuppoRTT and return-to-training queries. Contact your Training Programme Director or educational supervisor for training support. Contact your employer for employment, HR, occupational health, rota and return-to-work processes.

What HET can and cannot help with
HET can help with

• Directing you to the correct SuppoRTT form or process.
• Supporting return-to-training planning where HET is responsible.
• Liaising with programme teams where appropriate.
• Recording relevant return information in training records where required.

HET cannot help with

• Approving employer leave or return-to-work arrangements.
• Providing occupational health advice.
• Guaranteeing specific rota adjustments or placement changes.
• Replacing employer HR, sickness absence or wellbeing processes.

Related articles

• SuppoRTT: Pre-Absence form – when and how to complete it
• SuppoRTT: Pre-Return form – planning your return to training
• Returning to training after a period of leave or absence

Last reviewed
 Last reviewed: 19 June 2026