BOGOF fit notes!
By Gail Escolme, 01 July 2010 –
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, in their monthly e-news, are warning employers to beware of fake fit notes, the notes that have recently been introduced to replace sick notes.
Apparently there is a website selling what they describe as novelty fit notes for £10 each, though as I understand it they would pass as genuine fit notes. Amazingly they are currently offering them on a "buy one get one free" (BOGOF) basis - so that employees can keep a spare should they need it in the future!
If you suspect a sick note is fake then the easiest way to check is to telephone the surgery where it has purportedly come from to find out if the doctor on the note has actually signed it. Of course if it is fake then the employee would be guilty of fraud which is capable of being a gross misconduct offence.
However, do be sure to follow the correct procedure when dealing with such a matter - in reality there is rarely such a thing as instant dismissal anymore - you must ensure that you have completed the proper investigation and have the documentary evidence to back up any decision you may make. As ever take advice if you are unsure of how to proceed.