Government to launch 'fit notes' in April 2010

'Fit notes' will be replacing sick notes with effect from 6th April, 2010, despite concerns about the lack of time for employers to familiarise themselves with the new system.

The new statement will list common changes that could be made to an employee's job role or work environment to facilitiate a return to work.  A doctor will be able to stipulate specific changes in a comments box.

The new system allows for the employer and employee to agree any changes that can be made to enable the employee to return to work.

During the first six months of a condition, the statement can be issued for a maximum of three months.

If it is not possible to make changes, then the existing statement will be evidence of the medical problem preventing the employee from working.

Specific guidance will be available from the Government in due course.