‘Fit Notes’ To Replace ‘Sick Notes’ From 6th April

by June Hood

The Department for Work and Pensions has published its consultation response on ‘fit notes’ which are intended to be introduced on 6th April and save the taxpayer £240 million over 10 years.

The fit note will list common changes that employers could make to the working environment to facilitate an employee’s return and GP’s will be able to make their own alternative suggestions on the form.

The fit note enables a GP to advise an employee “you may be fit for work taking account of the following advice”. However, it will be the responsibility of employer and employee as to whether changes can be made to safely enable the employee’s return to work.

Fit notes will also only last for an initial maximum period of 3 months and not 6 months as previously and the Government aims to produce further guidance for healthcare professionals, individuals and employers prior to implementation of the new rules.

According to Lord McKenzie, Secretary of State for the DWP “The fit note will reduce the costs that employers often have to bear when people are off sick for a long time. We know work is good for people’s health. With the right support in place, employers and doctors can work with employees to help them get back to work sooner.”

For further information please contact June Hood on 01276 681217 or e-mail: june.hood@brooks-partners.co.uk