A scapula fracture can temporarily prevent you from lifting, driving or completing your normal work. Whether you can still receive income depends on your employment arrangements and eligibility for sick pay. Here is what UK employees should know while recovering from a broken shoulder blade.
Can You Get Sick Pay While You Recover?
Yes, you may be able to receive sick pay if your scapula fracture prevents you from doing your normal job.
Start by checking your employment contract or staff handbook. Some employers provide company or occupational sick pay, which may offer your normal salary or a proportion of it for a specified period. The amount and duration depend on your employer’s policy.
If you are classed as an employee, you may instead qualify for Statutory Sick Pay (SSP). Under the rules applying from 6 April 2026, eligible employees can receive SSP from the first full working day they are off sick. For the 2026/27 tax year, SSP is £123.25 per week or 80% of average weekly earnings, whichever is lower.
You should tell your employer that you cannot work within the deadline set by your workplace. If your employer has not specified one, GOV.UK states that you should usually notify them within seven days.
Your exact entitlement depends on your circumstances, so speak to your employer or HR department rather than assuming you will automatically receive your normal salary.
Do You Need a Fit Note?
You can normally self-certify your sickness absence for the first seven calendar days. If your scapula fracture keeps you away from work for longer than seven days, your employer can ask for a fit note.
A fit note can be issued by several healthcare professionals, including a hospital doctor, GP, registered nurse, physiotherapist, pharmacist or occupational therapist. It can state that you are not fit for work or that you may be able to work with suitable adjustments.
Those adjustments could include:
- A phased return to work
- Shorter or altered working hours
- Amended duties
- Avoiding heavy lifting
- Working from home where practical
- Changes to your workstation
Government guidance specifically allows fit notes to recommend amended duties, altered hours, workplace adaptations and phased returns. You and your employer can then discuss whether those changes are practical for your role.
This can be particularly useful if you can perform desk-based tasks but cannot yet lift, reach or carry safely.
How Long Might You Need Off Work?
Recovery varies depending on the location and severity of the fracture, whether you have other injuries and whether surgery is required.
Current NHS guidance specifically for scapula fractures advises that patients may begin returning to light activities during weeks three to six. It also advises avoiding heavy lifting for six weeks. By approximately six to twelve weeks, the fracture is generally expected to have healed sufficiently for a gradual return towards normal activities, although heavier tasks may still cause discomfort.
That does not mean everyone should return to work on the same date.
Someone with a desk-based role may be able to work sooner, particularly if their pain is controlled and their employer can modify their duties. A construction worker, tradesperson, healthcare professional or anyone whose job involves lifting and significant upper-body movement may need more time.
Your specialist should consider what your job actually involves before advising you about returning. Your ability to work depends on function, movement and safety, not simply whether a certain number of weeks have passed.
What If You Cannot Return Straight Away?
If you do not qualify for SSP or your sick-pay entitlement ends while you are still unable to work, other financial support may be available depending on your circumstances.
For example, New Style Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) may be available to people whose health condition or injury limits their ability to work. Universal Credit can also take account of a health condition that temporarily or permanently affects your capability for work. Eligibility is assessed separately, so check the current GOV.UK guidance before applying.
Try to discuss your situation with your employer early. If you are recovering well but cannot yet perform your full role, a temporary change in duties may allow you to return without placing unnecessary strain on your healing shoulder.
Do not rush back to heavy lifting simply because your sick pay is ending. A premature return to demanding activity could interfere with your rehabilitation and may not be safe.
Plan Your Return to Work With Specialist Advice
You may be able to receive company sick pay, Statutory Sick Pay or other financial support while recovering from a scapula fracture. How long you need away from work will depend on the injury and the physical demands of your occupation.
London Shoulder and Arm provides specialist assessment and treatment for shoulder fractures, including fracture fixation surgery where appropriate. Contact the team for expert advice about your injury, recovery and a safe return to work.