Introduction to Fit Notes

New Approach

On 6 April 2010 `fit notes´ (the common name for a Statement of Fitness for Work) replaced the existing `sick notes´, as part of a wider government response to a review entitled `Working for a Healthier Tomorrow´.

The fit note will continue to allow General Practitioners (GPs) to advise that an employee is `not fit for work´, but also offer a new option of `may be fit for work´. This is to be used where they consider the individual´s health may allow them to work, whilst they recover from their condition, if they get appropriate support from their employer.

It provides a new focus on what the individual can do, rather than what their ill health prevents them from doing, and dispels the mistaken belief that individuals have to be completely fit to return to work.

Why have they been introduced?

This new national approach enables GPs to help patients avoid long term sickness absence and the potential associated health problems of protracted absence from work, through the provision of simple, clear and practical advice. The fit note will enable both managers and employees to manage sickness absence and explore ways of facilitating a return to work.

The fit note is not about trying to get people back to work before they are ready, but about removing the challenges to them returning and being able to work while recovering from their ill-health.

Further Information

Further information in relation to the `fit note´, has been added to the `Quick Links Box', including guidance for both employees and managers, which will continue to be reviewed/developed. In the meantime, if you should receive such a fit note and have any queries please do not hesitate to contact your Human Resources Team.