Half of GPs claim the new fit note system has not helped people keep their job during an illness, according to research conducted by ComRes on behalf of Legal & General.

The research also shows 47% of GPs disagree that the new system gives them a clearer role in helping people keep their jobs during an illness.

Diane Buckley, managing director of Legal & General’s Group Income Protection, says: “Our experience suggests that many employers also lack the specialist expertise to interpret the implications of a fit note for an employee’s return to work. What’s important is for employers, doctors and employees to work together to make sure that tailored, individual support is delivered quickly.”