The UK government is trialling a new approach to sick notes, and it could change how absence is managed.
In four areas, GPs will move away from simply signing people off. Instead, they will be offered personalised support through community health workers or occupational therapists to help them stay in work or return sooner.
Why this matters…
Right now, over 90% of fit notes declare people “not fit for work.”
As an employer, that often means:
- No clear return date
- No guidance on support
- Little room for flexibility
The result is a system that doesn’t work well for anyone, and it’s frustrating for employers (and not always helpful for employees, either).
What’s the shift?
This trial moves the focus from: “Are they off work?” to “How can they stay or come back?”
This could lead to:
- Earlier intervention
- More practical guidance
- Better outcomes for both employers and employees
The catch
For this to truly work, employers need to be part of the process. Without your input, there’s a risk this becomes just another layer of complexity rather than a meaningful improvement.
What should you be thinking about now?
This is where absence management is heading:
- Earlier support – acting before issues escalate
- More flexibility – adapting roles or working patterns
- Better communication – keeping everyone aligned
Are your current processes set up to support this more proactive, flexible approach?
If not, now’s a great time to review how you manage absence, and where small changes could make a big difference.
