The Government’s new Fit for Work scheme is beginning its rollout. The free service is aimed people that have been on long-term sick leave.
Occupational health assessments have begun to help people who have been in work for four weeks or longer get back into work.
GPs in the active areas where this service has begun will be able to refer their patients to the service with their permission and patients will then benefit from an in-depth consultation, Return to Work Plan and support in getting back their job.
Neil Carberry, director for employment and skills at the CBI, said: “It’s good to see the Government giving people extra support to get back to work after extended sick leave, and will also mean that firms can avoid losing talented staff to long-term absence. Businesses welcome the Fit for Work service and it is great to see it rolling out nationally.
"In the longer term we would like to see GPs using service as a default option for those absent for four weeks or more.”
There is an advice line and website, both of which can be used now by anyone needing work-related health advice, including employees, employers and GPs, on 0800 032 6235 or via www.fitforwork.org
