Prime Minister criticises 'sick note culture', launches call for evidence
The government is planning changes to the fit note system that could mean people being sent to health and work advisers rather than going to their own GP, when they’re seeking time off work for ill health.
Announcing the plans, the Prime Minister said society needed to be “more honest about the risk of over-medicalising the everyday challenges and worries of life”, after figures showing rising Personal Independent Payments (PIPs) awarded for mental health conditions.
His comments come in the same week that the CQC published new data showing serious shortcomings with NHS community mental health services.
This report shows that people’s experiences of NHS mental health services provided in the community are poor. Most notably, quality of care, crisis care, support while waiting, planning and involvement in care, and support with other areas of life.
Care Quality Commission Report, April 2024
In the same month, the Office for National Statistics confirmed that the prevalance of Long COVID is not significantly declining, with around two million people still experiencing symptoms. The ONS survey reported 51.3% of those with Long COVID had been suffering for at least two years. Long COVID can have serious long-term impacts on people's ability to work.
Fit Note Reform: call for evidence
The Department for Work and Pensions seeking views of the current fit note system in a call for evidence.
Feedback is welcome from people who are signed off work or had fit notes in the past, health professionals, employers, integrated care boards, councils and other organisations.
Responses should be submitted by 8 July 2024.
