Fake 'fit notes' being sold online for £9.99

False versions of the new ''fit note' are being sold on-line for less than £10.  The website promises to deliver the fake 'fit notes' within 48 hours and, at the time of posting this article (1730 hours on Friday 11th June 2010), the fake 'fit notes' were being promoted with a 'buy one, get one free' offer.

While the site claims that the fake documents are for 'novelty use only', it is entirely possible that employers could be tricked into believing that they are genuine.  The forms look extremely authentic, they come with a doctor's stamp and buyers can choose from doctors' surgeries across the UK. 

Indeed, the 'buy one, get one free' offer is promoted on the basis that buyers will have a 'spare one' to fill in a later date, with the site stating that 'you never know when you'll have to explain your absence again.'

Not surprisingly, the fake 'fit notes' have provoked concern.  Sources from the Work Foundation and the Chartered Institite of Personel and Development have stated that it the fake 'fit notes' will be difficult to spot, espescially since 'fit notes' were introduced only in April this year and employers are still getting used to the new form.

Notes:

1. For advice in relation to 'fit notes' and sickness absence management generally, please e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

2. The firm has been preparing sickness absence policies for employers which take account of the new 'fit note'.  For advcie in relation to this, please e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it