The Fit for Work service


Under the occupational health scheme Fit for Work, employers and GPs can refer employees who have been, or are likely to be, off work sick for four weeks or more to the service for a voluntary occupational health assessment to help them return to work. 



Employees can be referred for a consultation with an occupational health professional who will examine the issues that might be preventing a return to work, including work-related and wider personal issues, as well as health matters. They then work with the employee to agree a return-to-work plan. The plan provides evidence of sickness for pay purposes, replacing the need for a GP fit note, and if the employee gives consent, Fit for Work professionals can also work directly with employers to help achieve a return to work.



The service also includes a telephone advice line and website, both of which can be used by anyone requiring work-related health advice, including employees, employers and GPs (0800 032 6235; www.fitforwork.org).



The TUC gave the service a qualified welcome when it began in 2015. It has encouraged unions to ensure that employers embrace Fit for Work in a positive way and also offer workers union support, stating that: “Most workers would rather be well and at work than ill and off sick. We support anything that will help people recover when they are ill, and so we welcome Fit for Work."


The TUC guide for union representatives on Fit for Work referrals can be downloaded from the its website at: www.tuc.org.uk/Fit%20for%20work%20guide.