Mind welcomes 'fit notes'
26 November 2008
 Mental health charity Mind has welcomed the government proposal to replace sick notes with fit notes. The new initiative, introduced by Dame Carol Black, is expected to reduce the amount of money lost by British businesses as a result of employee absences.Paul Farmer, chief executive of Mind, said the new proposals would benefit people with mental health problems who often lack support during their illness, which presents barriers to allow them to remain in employment.However the organisation believes that GPs will have to be sensitive to people's needs and ensure they are properly assessed.Mr Farmer said: "GPs aren't occupational health experts, and a person who is able to do work-related tasks isn't necessarily able to cope with the working environment."He added: "For the system to work, doctors and employers need to cooperate closely."Alan Johnson, health secretary, said the new Fit for Work initiative would reduce the number of people on incapacity benefit. © 2008 Adfero Ltd. All rights reserved. Any views and opinions expressed in news articles are not those of Craegmoor Limited and its associated companies. News supplied by Adfero DirectNews.
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