It appears that the number of individuals taking sick leave from work has shown signs of decline after experiencing a significant increase over the past decade. The issuance of “fit notes” by healthcare providers, which had surged from approximately 5.2 million in 2015/16 to over 11 million in 2025, was largely driven by prolonged illnesses and mental health concerns.
Recent analysis of the 2025 data indicates a slight rise in the instances where doctors have suggested that patients “may be fit for work” with adjustments to their job roles. This development follows criticism from Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who highlighted flaws in the fit note system, emphasizing the need to avoid prematurely writing off individuals from work opportunities.
Data from NHS England reveals that in 2025, a total of 11.17 million sick notes were dispensed, with 93% (10.37 million) indicating the recipients as “not fit for work.” Notably, around 8% (approximately one million) of the issued notes suggested that individuals “may be fit for work,” recommending a gradual return to work, modified working hours, or altered responsibilities.
The figures suggest a possible shift in a decade-long trend, as the total number of notes indicating individuals as “not fit for work” decreased slightly from 10.44 million in 2024. The initiative led by Mr. Streeting to promote new strategies for supporting individuals in staying employed or re-entering the workforce has initiated pilot programs in 15 regions, connecting recipients of fit notes with services offering work and health guidance.
Fit notes serve as official documentation certifying a patient’s illness, justifying their absence from work and eligibility for sick pay. Employees are typically required to obtain a fit note after the first week of illness, during which self-certification is permissible.
Recent data from the final quarter of 2025 disclosed that 2,853,624 fit notes were distributed between October and December, indicating a decline of 14,935 compared to the corresponding period in the prior year. The North East region had the highest fit note issuance rate per 100,000 registered patients, while London recorded the lowest rate.
Consultancy firm Broadstone’s 2025 analysis illustrates that the number of individuals being signed off work remains notably elevated. Out of the total 11.17 million fit notes, 59% were assigned to females and 41% to males. Mental and behavioral disorders accounted for 36% of the stated reasons for sick leave, followed by musculoskeletal conditions at 18%. A significant proportion, approximately 8.28 million notes, did not specify a specific diagnosis.
Jamie Burdess, principal consultant at Broadstone, emphasized the need to monitor whether the data indicates a stabilization at near-record levels or the onset of a trend reversal in workplace absenteeism. He expressed concerns regarding the current system potentially encouraging permanent workforce exits instead of facilitating individuals’ ability to remain employed or rejoin the workforce. Despite a slight improvement in workplace sickness absence post-pandemic, the overall levels remain troublingly high.