Fit for work?

The government is in the process of a phased launch of the new system, with both the English and Scottish schemes expected to be fully operational by May this year.

Sickness absence costs employers billions of pounds each year and, as well as reducing costs, the purpose of the new scheme is to provide an occupational health assessment and general health and work advice to employees, employers and GPs with the aim of helping individuals stay in or return to work.

MDDUS employment law adviser Liz Symon says: “We regularly deal with calls from practices on how to deal with long-term absence and it is hoped this new scheme will provide more transparency and help both employers and employees.

“Practices should update their sickness absence policies to reflect the new service and inform employees of any changes. It is hoped the Fitness for Work scheme will aid employees’ return to work and help employers better manage sickness absence in their organisations.