Fit for Work is a Government backed scheme that aims to help you to manage your health conditions and/or sickness absence through an initial telephone advice service and a referral to an assessment service for work related health advice.
Advice:
Fit for Work can give you advice for all work-related health matters via a website and telephone line.
In January 2018 it was announced that the Government has decided to wind down this service. The referral system is to be discontinued, but for the time being, the website and telephone help line will continue.
Fit for Work is:
- Free – accessing advice and assessments are free for you, your employer and your GP
- Quick – you can access advice from Monday to Friday 8.30am to 6.00pm in England and Wales and Monday to Friday 9.00am to 5.00pm in Scotland. A referral for an assessment can be made via web or telephone. Once a referral for an assessment is being made you will be contacted by a health professional within 2 working days
- Supportive – you can choose to be referred for a Fit for Work assessment through your GP or employer. It will provide you with a plan, agreed by you and the occupational health professional, which will also be shared with your employer and GP to help support you back into work with your consent
You do need to give your consent to participate in this scheme. A refusal to cooperate with your Employer is not recommended – your Employer may have to proceed with some action even if you do not consent to take part.