The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) is supporting the launch of the government’s fit note launched this week because it “highlights the need for more workplace counselling to be made available”.

The new fit note replaces the existing sick note, aiming to encourage more employees back to work while calling upon employers to ensure there are relevant support mechanisms in place for this to happen.

A press release by BACP states:

Over 40% of GP consultations are for problems related to mood and emotional states; these issues often lie at the heart of sickness/absence from work.  From Tuesday 6th April 2010 employers will find that workers experiencing these problems are more likely to be told that they ‘may be fit for work’ and will be given advice about what would make this possible. All of this is built on the premise that work is of psychological benefit and can improve wellbeing.

The main problem for employers will lie in understanding exactly what the impact of an individual medical condition is on the worker who has it, and what might need to change at work in the short-term to support attendance and promote their rapid return to wellness.

Workplace counsellors, as the key professionals involved in the emotional wellbeing of employees, will be required to assist with assessment and action-planning, and to identify the emotional triggers and coping strategies for both the employee and the employer.  The risk to employers in not working with counsellors is that adjustments may be made that have a less than beneficial effect or they may even be denied, and therefore lead not only to higher levels of absence but also may create grievances and more serious litigation.

Kevin Friery, Chair of BACP Workplace, said: “The government’s move towards a Wellbeing Culture is welcomed by counsellors. The fit note is a further step in the development of a UK workforce that is strong and resilient whilst having rapid access to help and support when needed.”