Fit notes replace sick notes

19 April 2010

Fit Notes Replace Sick Notes

The government is introducing a new “fit note” system to replace the current sick note certificates that are issued by G.P.s as evidence that an employee is ill or injured and unable to attend work as normal. An example of the new “fit note” can now be viewed.  The new system will come into effect this month.

 Under the new fit note system, a GP may advise that the employee is either:

• Unfit for work:  This confirms that the employee is too ill to work at all for the stated period of time (effectively the same as the old sick note),   OR
• May be fit for work taking account of the following advice:  This confirms that the employee’s health condition may allow them to work with suitable support if available.  The G.P will then indicate on the form which kind of support the employee may benefit from (e.g. amended duties, workplace adaptations, a phased return to work or altered hours), and the period of time for which this will be the case.  

The advice in the fit note is not binding to the employer.  The system is intended to recognise that it is not the doctor, but the employer, in consultation with the employee, who is best placed to make the decision as to whether they can accommodate such changes.  If an employer is unable to facilitate a change or adjustment, the fit note will count as evidence that the employee has a health condition preventing them from carrying out their role and should therefore remain on sick leave for the stated period of time.