Fit for what?

Unions are sceptical about a new government scheme to get workers off sick back to work. Last month the Department for Work and Pensions announced the “Fit for Work” Service Programme pilot, which will test out how sickness absentees can be helped to recover and supported to get back to work more quickly than would otherwise be the case. Each pilot will test personalised, back to work support for people off sick.

However the TUC argues that much more needs to be done. Hugh Robertson, TUC safety officer said: “These pilots go nowhere near what is needed. They are, at best, a substitute for good sickness absence procedures by employers. The solution is instead, access to comprehensive occupational health support, far more resources invested in prevention, and greater support for union safety and other representatives.”