A NEW government support service, helping thousands of workers facing long-term sickness absence to return to work more quickly, is available in Penarth from today, Monday, June 29.

The free and confidential service, known as Fit for Work, will provide the services of occupational health professionals to employed people if they have been, or are likely to be, off work for four weeks or more.

Around 48,000 Welsh workers a year have a sickness absence of four weeks or more, according to Government statistics.

Research indicates that, without support, a significant proportion will struggle to return to their jobs.

All GPs in the Cardiff and Vale University Health Board area will be able to offer patients a referral to the new service, which includes an in-depth assessment, followed by a personalised Return to Work Plan and managed support to get back to their jobs.

GPs and practice managers have been briefed about the new service to which they can refer eligible patients, provided the individuals concerned give their consent.

The Return to Work Plan will direct employees towards services that will help them overcome any obstacles keeping them away from work.

The Return to Work plan can replace the need for doctors to issue fit notes, thereby relieving pressure on GPs’ time. Support from the new service lasts for up to three months.

Employers will also be able to refer their employees in the autumn once the gradual roll out for GPs has been completed.

Secretary of State for Wales, Stephen Crabb said: “The Fit for Work initiative will give tens of thousands of people across Wales the support they need to return to their jobs more quickly.”

Dr Sue Elliston, professional medical advisor to the Healthy Working Wales team based within Public Health Wales, welcomed the arrival of the new service.

She said: “We’re optimistic that Fit for Work will complement the Healthy Working Wales programme which seeks to reduce the number of employees falling out of work due to ill health and to promote early return to work for those who do need to take time off.”

The Fit for Work referral service is complemented by a telephone advice line and website, both of which can be used now by anyone requiring work-related health advice, including employees, employers and GPs.

Call 0800 032 6235 or visit fitforwork.org