SuppoRTT: Pre-Return form – planning your return to training

What this article is about
This article explains when to complete the SuppoRTT Pre-Return form and how it supports return planning.

Who this is for
Doctors and dentists in training preparing to return after time away from training.

What you need to know

• The Pre-Return form helps plan a safe and supported return to training.
• It should usually be completed before you return.
• It may be used after OOP, parental leave, long-term sickness absence, career break or other significant time away.
• The form helps identify learning needs, confidence, supervision, phased return, shadowing, simulation, courses or other support.
• Return planning should involve your educational supervisor, Training Programme Director and employer where appropriate.
• Completing the form does not replace employer return to work, occupational health or rota processes.

What to do

1. Start return planning as early as possible before your return date.
2. Complete the Pre-Return form through the required SuppoRTT route.
3. Confirm your expected return date and placement if known.
4. Identify any support or adjustments you may need.
5. Discuss the plan with your educational supervisor or Training Programme Director.
6. Contact your employer about rota, HR, occupational health or return to work requirements.
7. Keep a copy of the agreed return plan.

If this does not work
If your return date, placement or circumstances change, update the relevant team as soon as possible so the plan can be reviewed.

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 return processes.

What HET can and cannot help with
HET can help with

• Directing you to the Pre-Return 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 return to work arrangements.
• Providing occupational health advice.
• Guaranteeing specific rota adjustments.
• Replacing employer HR or sickness absence processes.

Related articles

• SuppoRTT: Pre-Absence form – when and how to complete it
• SuppoRTT: Follow-up form – support after you return
• Returning to training after a period of leave or absence

Last reviewed
 Last reviewed: 19 June 2026