Employment law changes highlighted ahead of fit notes

Posted 24/02/2010

The introduction of fit notes to replace the current system of sick notes could have important implications for employment law.

This is according to the Institute of Payroll Professionals (IPP), which recommended that firms prepare their HR staff for how the legislation may affect the payroll if working hours are altered, as well as for potential issues regarding statutory sick pay.

Fit notes will be introduced as of April 6th 2010 and will see doctors recommending to employees what they can do in their place of work, even if this is not their usual role.

It is hoped that this will allow people who have been injured or ill return to work more quickly, rather than staying off on long-term sick leave.

However, IPP spokesperson Elaine Gibson warned: “A large organisation may be better equipped and have more resources to deal with this kind of situation whereas a smaller employer may not.”

According to DirectGov, sick leave costs the British economy £100 billion a year.