'Fit Note' scheme update

An interesting change in how illness is approached and handled by employers was introduced by the previous Government on 6th April 2010, aimed at tackling Britain’s benefit expenditure and culture. The change from ‘Sick Note’ to ‘Fit Note’ has been widely heralded as innovative, however with innovation comes some uncertainty.

Zurich’s Employers Liability cover remains unchanged following the introduction of the ‘Fit Note’, though the new scheme may provide challenges to HR Professionals and Managers in both the public and private sector. When deciding what precisely to do with an employee returning to work after illness, it may be worth thinking through the following questions:

• Has a Risk Assessment been carried out prior to their return, taking into account the information provided by their physician?
• Will the employee be able to return to their current role in the same status as before their illness? If not, will they be fit for work in a reduced status, such as with reduced hours or workload? This is particularly pertinent with employees returning from stress related illness or physical injury.
• If the employee is being placed in an alternative role during the rehabilitation process, is this role suitable for the individual?
• At what intervals will the ongoing suitability of the rehabilitation programme be assessed?

An important aspect of the ‘Fit Note’ which can be potentially overlooked is that the ‘Fit Note’ does not force the employer to bring the employee back in to employment – this decision ultimately sits with the employer as to when and how the employee will return to work. Such a decision should ensure that whatever role the employee is placed in, the duties do not contradict the guidance stated on the ‘Fit Note’ or in any way hinder the employees continued rehabilitation.