Fit For Work Scheme

Fit for Work is a new UK Government service for all employees who are off work.  Once an employee has reached or is expected to reach 4 weeks sickness absence, they can be referred by their GP for a Fit for Work assessment by an occupational health professional who will look at the issues preventing a return to work.  No worker can be forced to have an assessment and must be asked for their consent to take part, they can also withdraw consent at any time. In Scotland the scheme is provided by the Scottish Government using NHS health professionals.

The worker will be asked about their condition, job and any other factors that might be affecting their work including personal issues and issues outside work. The health professional will develop a “Return to Work Plan” which they should discuss with the patient, it makes recommendations which could be aimed at the worker, their GP or their employer.  The worker can ask for changes or refuse to agree for it to be shared.  If the worker agrees the Return to Work Plan is sent to the employer and GP.  The worker can ask that the employer only gets the part of the plan that relates to them.

UNISON will be contacting employers to make sure the correct procedures are in place and that they accept Return to Work Plans as evidence of employees being not fit for work.  If you have a concern about the Fit for Work scheme or a Return to Work Plan please contact the Branch Office as soon as you can.