What is the new law on sick notes?

What is the new law on sick notes?

The Department for Work and Pensions and the Department of Health and Social Care expressed their rising concerns over long-term sickness and the economic impact, and as a result, have initiated a call for evidence aimed at reforming the fit note process. This initiative seeks to gather insights into the effectiveness of the current system and identify areas for enhancement, especially for those with long-term health conditions requiring intensive support.

What is a fit note?

A fit note is an official document issued by a registered healthcare professional that provides a medical assessment of a person's ability to work. Fit notes were previously known as sick notes.

Fit notes, introduced in 2010 to replace traditional sick notes, were designed to provide patients with advice on the benefits of returning to work while equipping employers with the necessary information to facilitate an early return. 

However, recent government statistics reveal a concerning trend, with economic inactivity due to long-term sickness rising by nearly half a million post- pandemic. It was found that 93.8% of fit notes issued in primary care across England say that patients are ‘not fit for work’, potentially missing opportunities to provide adequate support for individuals to remain employed.

The aim of the call for evidence is to streamline the fit note process, ensuring timely access to specialised work and health discussions and support. By collecting insights and experiences from healthcare professionals, individuals, and employers, the government aims to find practical solutions to enhance outcomes for everyone involved. Key questions focus on the current process's effectiveness, areas needing improvement, and the inclusion of additional information within fit notes to support successful returns to work

How will the change impact you?

1. Employees

• Improved support: With a reformed fit note process, employees can receive better guidance on managing their health conditions while staying engaged with their work. This can help them feel more supported and less isolated during their recovery.
• Work adjustments: Enhanced fit notes can provide more specific recommendations for workplace adjustments, making it easier for employees to return to work in a capacity that suits their current health status.
• Better communication: Clearer information and advice within fit notes can foster better communication between employees and their employers, ensuring that employees' needs are understood and addressed effectively.

2. Healthcare professionals

• More effective tools: The reform aims to provide healthcare professionals with better tools and guidelines to support patients in their journey back to work. This can lead to more accurate and helpful fit note assessments.
• Collaboration: By working closely with employers and policymakers, healthcare professionals can play a key role in developing a more effective system that benefits their patients' overall well-being and work-life balance.

3. Employers

Employers also stand to gain from these reforms. By receiving better guidance and advice within fit notes, employers can make appropriate workplace adjustments, creating a culture of inclusivity and well-being.

How Can GloverPriest Help?

At GloverPriest, we provide friendly and transparent legal advice. If you would like further advice on employment law, please don’t hesitate to speak to one of our expert lawyers today. Complete our enquiry form.

Listen to our new podcast: Legally Heard.

On Legally Heard, we catch up with our expert solicitors at GloverPriest Solicitors who give us monthly insights into laws that affect your life.

This is not your average legal podcast, we give practical tips to handle important situations in your every day life. From divorce, to finances, property, children and Wills. Let's chat