Sick note to fit note – helping people stay in work

On the 6 April 2010 the sick note was replaced by the fit note.

Evidence shows that work is generally good for your health and that often going back to work can actually aid a person’s recovery. On the other hand, staying off work can lead to long-term absence and job loss with the risk of isolation, loss of confidence, mental health issues, de-skilling and social exclusion.

The new fit note can help. Doctors are able to advise people who are on sick leave for over 7 days whether, with extra support from their employer, they could return to work earlier.

• Healthcare professionals (DWP website)
• Employers (Business Link)

Employees and patients

• The fit note explained (538KB)
• Employees and patients – the new fit note (Directgov)