A NEW scheme designed to reduce the amount of time people spend on sick leave becomes fully operational next month.
Keighley employment lawyer Umberto Vietri says the Fit for Work programme aims to stamp out Britain's "sick note culture".
It will provide free occupational health assessments to employees and return-to-work plans to help those who have been off sick for four weeks or more.
There will also be an online and telephone advice service and free guidance for employers.
"By reducing the amount of time employees have off work the scheme will not only help employers cut sick pay costs but will also minimise time consumed through absence-management routines," said Mr Vietri, of AWB Charlesworth Solicitors.
"Likewise it is hoped the economy will also benefit through a reduction in employees claiming benefits after falling out of work."
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