'Broken system' | Fit note reform trial could reshape absence management - but employers seek clarity on their role

The Government has launched a series of pilots aimed at overhauling the UK’s “broken” fit note system, with employers potentially set to play a greater role in supporting employees to stay in or return to work following illness.

The reforms, which will be trialled through four pilots in England covering up to 100,000 appointments over the next year, are designed to replace what ministers describe as a “tick-box exercise” with more personalised support plans for workers who fall ill.

Under the plans, employees could receive tailored “stay in work” or “return to work” support, including three-way conversations between employers, workers and trained professionals to discuss reasonable adjustments and maintain workplace connections from the first day of absence.

The move comes amid growing concern over the effectiveness of the current system, which sees around 11 million fit notes issued annually, with more than nine in ten declaring someone “not fit for work”. Government evidence published alongside the announcement found only three in 10 healthcare professionals in primary care believe fit notes are a good use of GP time, while six in 10 employers think the process is ineffective at supporting employees’ work and health needs.