Dame Carol Black, National Director for Health and Work, will also propose trials for a Fit to Work service providing early access to specialists such as physiotherapists and counsellors.
However, ministers must provide businesses with enough support to make the changes work should the report result in new legislation, say Bedfordshire business leaders.
The Confederation of British Industry estimates that sickness absence costs UK business more than £12 billion a year. Richard Lacy, chief executive of county business representative the Chamber, said: “The impact on productivity and efficiency of our businesses should not be underestimated.”
Mr Lacy (pictured) added: “Of course we recognise that many people are genuinely unwell but research indicates that being out of work for long stretches is unhelpful for both employee morale and future health prospects. The ideal solution for those with relatively minor ailments is to help them back into the workplace as quickly as possible, even if that means adjusting duties and re-assessing the working environment.
“While we welcome the proposals, the burden of administration and cost must not fall to already overburdened businesses.”
