Fit notes act prompt conversations about sickness absence

The introduction of the fit note to replace the sick note has provided the nudge needed for managers to open up important conversations with their staff and discuss the best way to help get individuals back to work. More than half of employers agree that the introduction of the fit note has enabled line managers to prompt conversations about absence and health issues with their staff, according to newly released findings from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD)/Simplyhealth Absence Management survey.

31 % agree that the fit note helps line managers to manage absence more effectively. The vast majority of employers use the fit note in their organisations, however its use is less common in smaller businesses of less than 50 employees.

Employers remain unconvinced that the fit note has yet had much impact in helping to reduce levels of employee sickness absence.

Gill Phipps for Simplyhealth comments: "Helping people get back into work following illness or prolonged sickness absence is beneficial for both the employee and the employer. Quality support and training are vital for initiatives to properly embed and become successful within our organisations." 

Health cash plan news: 23 December 2011