Online HR Toolkit
Get full access to 1000+ up-to-date HR guides, 24/7 Legal Helpline*, document templates, policies and guidance for you or your HR team
Useful info on the Government’s Fit For Work service
The Fit for Work service, previously known as the Health and Work Service, was launched at the end of 2014 and has been welcomed by the private sector. It is designed to help employers deal with sickness absence and health conditions, as well as provide support to employees. Here we share some useful info on the service…
Two parts – an occupational health referral service and advice
The Government Fit for Work service is targeted to provide help and support for SMEs who are unlikely to have occupational health support, as well as larger SMEs whose HR departments may benefit from some specialist advice and help.
-
- Employee
For the employee, the service is there to provide advice free of charge through a web-based library of information and a telephone advice service. Free impartial advice is provided by occupational health professionals.
-
- Employer
If you have an employee who has been absent due to sickness for four weeks, you can refer them for a free occupational health assessment. Employees who agree to the assessment will be offered a telephone assessment which can be used to form a return to work plan. You can also make use of their email and telephone service, and their website library to improve your knowledge in response to a specific staff situation.
Benefit?
If you feel the Fit for Work service could be of help in your organisation then it is advisable to share the information with your employees. You could do this by referencing it in your own policies and procedures and posting information on staff notice boards. Clarify what support you have in place for employees on long-term sick leave and ensure that your HR policies are up to date and legally compliant.
If you are concerned by your long term sickness rates, or how you can support your employees, we would be happy to discuss your options. We provide HR expert advice and support whether on an online, ad-hoc or HR consultancy basis, as an outsourced part of your team. Whether it is a specific issue or a review of your policies you would like to discuss, we look forward to hearing from you on 01473 360160.
“They're incredibly easy to talk to and immediately put you at ease”
“I’ve had the pleasure of working with MAD-HR and can confidently say their team is among the most approachable and kind I’ve encountered. They’re incredibly easy to talk to and immediately put you at ease, which makes all the difference when dealing with HR matters. Their knowledge and professionalism are clear from the outset, and they take the time to really listen and provide practical, informed advice. If I ever had an HR issue, I would be more than happy to speak with MAD-HR again. They’re exactly the kind of people you want in your corner. ”
This article is intended for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for advice tailored to your individual circumstances. Please be aware that the law may have changed since the article was published.
Articles may include links to external websites. We have no control over the content, availability or accuracy of these sites, and their inclusion does not imply endorsement or approval of the information or views expressed.
Start a conversation
If you need access to commercial and friendly experts to chat through any HR concerns or challenges your business is facing, you have come to the right place!
