Fit Notes to Replace Sick Notes from April 2010

From April 2010 the current 'sick note' will be replaced by the Statement of Fitness to Work or 'fit note'.

GPs will be able to offer advice on what work an employee may be able to perform and will be able to suggest adjustments to working arrangements which could be made in order to facilitate an earlier return to work.

This legislation will affect all employers in Great Britain.

Why the change?

The isolation brought on by absence from work can lead to stress, depression and anxiety. Getting employees back to work earlier can help promote physical and mental wellbeing and improve organisational effectiveness.

The new fit note is designed to give employees and employers more flexibility in how they deal with sickness absence. This might mean discussing altered hours or a modified work routine. The key is to establish a dialogue between the employer, employee and their GP or occupational health specialist.

Click here to view guidance online: www.acas.org.uk/fitnote

Acas Fit note training available

Acas is offering training to bring employers up to speed on these important changes. This training will cover considerations such as:

- Amended duties and workplace adaptation

- Phased return to work

- Confidentiality

- Disagreement with advice given by GP - is the GP's advice binding?

For full training course details and to find a course in your area click here:

Acas Fit Note training course listing