Proposed Fit Note May Force Employees to Return to Work Even when Unwell
According to a new proposal initiated by the government, employees who are unwell but are fit to do some work may be forced to resume work by their employers. In an effort to ensure injured or ill employees an easy transition into their original responsibilities, the government has decided to replace sick notes by its proposed fit notes. However, many fear that this may be used as an opportunity to force sick employees back to work, and that employees will be unable to cope with the pressure.
Thompsons Solicitors, a leading law firm, while acknowledging the need for such reforms, has expressed caution with regard to this proposal. According to Tom Jones, head of policy for Thompsons , this new fit note will only lead to more problems as employees will be forced to resume work and be expected to handle all their original workload without any support or adjustment from employers. In addition, the firm states that fit notes will be used as an excuse to fire sick employees on the pretext of not being able to perform assigned tasks. Moreover, according to the firm, this new proposal is silent on the issue of long-term health and wellbeing of employees.
According to the present proposal, discussions for which have ended, the doctors have to now certify their patients in three categories, namely,
Fit to work
Not fit to work
Can do some work but still unwell
The government by way of this fit note wants employees who fall in the third category to consider a phased return to work, with maybe modified hours, lesser workload and different forms of work. However, most employers are not aware of the special requirements of workers making a phased return, and fail to provide support to them for the same.
Experts also feel that this proposal will not reduce the financial burden on employers in the form of sick leave costs and compensation to workers who have fallen sick due to poor workplace conditions. The Certificate in Personnel Practice (CPP courses) provides a firm foundation in all the areas of personnel and will help you to gain a broad grasp of employment law so you can set your own organisation
