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Medical Certificates: Sick Leave

Asked by Mr Andrew SnowdenConservativeDepartment for Work and PensionsTabled Answered 22 June 2026UIN 7314

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, with reference to the Written Statement entitled Fit Note Reform Pilots, published on 21 May 2026, HCWS56, how much of the £3 million allocated to the pilot programme will be allocated to Lancashire and South Cumbria.

Answered by Dame Diana Johnson

The total budget for the Fit Note Reform Pilots in 2026–27 is £3 million, distributed across four pilot areas. Funding allocations differ between each area, reflecting local workforce configurations, delivery models and expected patient volumes agreed with each Integrated Care Board (ICB). Lancashire and South Cumbria has been allocated up to £1.15 million to support delivery of the pilot.

The Lancashire and South Cumbria pilot will be delivered through a multidisciplinary Community Work and Health Team, with an agreed balance of approximately 50 per cent clinical and 50 per cent non‑clinical roles. It will include a mix of existing WorkWell Work and Health Coaches and clinical, care coordination and employer engagement roles, supported by appropriate clinical and operational leadership.

Final workforce numbers and role profiles will be confirmed as implementation progresses.

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