Information for patients and employees

A change to the current ‘sick note’ will soon make it easier for people to return to work.

From April 6 2010, those who are off work due to illness will be given a new ‘fit note’ which replaces the traditional ‘sick note’.

The ‘fit note’ – which is completed by GPs – will have the option of suggesting that an employee is able to work, subject to temporary changes in their employment, such as reduced working hours or amended duties.

Making simple, practical adjustments to help people back to work at an earlier stage will benefit both the employer and the employee. This will help prevent long-term sickness absences and will ensure employers do not lose the expertise of their staff.

• Download guidance for patients/employees (PDF 42KB)
• An example of the new sick note
• Help with PDF files