The advice on the Fit Note

An employer is not obliged to accept the advice on a Fit Note, but if the employer decides not to follow GP advice (or follows it inadequately), the Fit Note must be treated as if the GP has advised that the employee is not fit for work.

The employer should carry out a revised risk assessment of any changes or adaptations needed to implement the recommendations on the Fit Note, to ensure new risks are not introduced.

The Fit Note procedure does not change the employer’s overriding statutory duty to make reasonable adjustments for a disabled employee (see Chapter 6).