The government will review the system of sick pay and GP “fit notes” in a bid to help disabled people back into work and reduce the cost of long-term sickness on the NHS.
While there is little detail about how the system will change exactly, ministers said they wanted to “support workers back into their jobs faster and for longer”. They want to get GPs to have a conversation with people, talking to them about what work they might be able to do. The government also want to change attitudes among employers and encourage more contact between employers and sick employees.
The review will also examine changes to the controversial work capability assessments (WCA) undergone by disabled people in order to get welfare.
Damian Green, the work and pensions secretary, appears to be reconsidering the work capability assessment. He said: “When things need improving, like the work capability assessment and fit notes, we mustn’t shy away from big decisions,” he said. “We must be bold in our ambition to help disabled people and those with health conditions. This green paper marks start of our action to confront the attitudes, prejudices and misunderstandings that, after many years, have become ingrained within the welfare state, within the minds of employers and across wider society.”
Have you been off work because of health problems? Do you welcome this consultation or are you worried it puts pressure people back to work who’re unfit? Share your views below.
