"This is something that EEF has been pressing government to introduce for some time and we are pleased to see that real progress is being made." said EEF's Chief Medical Officer, Professor Sayeed Khan.
"A fit note recognises that for many conditions a phased return to work is beneficial to both the company and the worker. Recovery from some of the most common causes of long-term ill health, including back pain and minor mental health problems, can often be speeded-up by appropriate activity. The fit note provides employers with the information to help an early, but appropriate return to work.”
EEF's Chief Medical Adviser, Prof Sayeed Khan, has been taking a leading role in devising a training programme for GPs to help give them the confidence and knowledge when dealing with issues of health and work. That is due to roll out across the country shortly.
An EEF/Unum 2009 Sickness Absence Survey published earlier this month showed an alarming rise in long term sickness absence with 36% of employers reporting an increase in the last year. It also found that barriers to rehabilitation cost manufacturing businesses more than £500m.