Fit for Work 'still underused' by employers

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Despite a boost in awareness, the government's flagship sickness absence service Fit for Work is still underused by employers, according to research.

More than four-fifths of HRs (82%) questioned in a study by PMI Health Group, part of Willis Towers Watson's health and benefits team, are now aware of the scheme. This is up from 70 per cent in a similar survey ahead of the scheme's launch in 2015. But only 21 per cent say they have used Fit for Work. Fit for Work provides two core functions for employers, employees and GPs. The first is the provision of free, expert and impartial work-related health advice via its website and telephone line.  It also allows employees on long-term sick leave to be referred to an occupational healt...

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