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NHS TAYSIDE COMMUNITY LISTENING SERVICE 

The NHS Community Listening Service is a valuable service that is available to anyone who needs support or someone to talk to during challenging periods of life.  People experiencing loss, grief, work stress, difficult relationships, chronic illnesses, the strain of caring responsibilities, and various other life challenges can sometimes find hope, relief, and a fresh perspective after speaking to a listener. It is a confidential service that offers a safe environment for individuals to express their thoughts and feelings without fear of being judged.   

 

The service is provided by NHS trained volunteers who come from diverse backgrounds and are ready to listen and provide emotional support for 50 minutes per appointment. Listeners can also signpost individuals to other services if needed. The appointments take place face-to-face at GP practices or via the central telephone service.    

 

The Community Listening Service is an important part of the NHS's commitment to promoting mental health and wellbeing. By providing a listening ear to those who need it most, it helps to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and encourages individuals to seek help when they need it. It has a proven track record of reducing stress, anxiety, and depression.  

 

Below is what people have said about the service: 

“Just having someone impartial helped enormously and some guidance was given as to who I could contact to help with one aspect of my issues.” 

“She listened, signposted and had a sense of humour that made me feel at ease.” 

“I felt empowered in being able to deal with my anxiety.” 

“A non-judgemental listening ear. I am able to speak my mind without considering the impact of what I say.” 

“This service is an excellent service to have at my doctor's practice and must also be a very good asset and help for the GPs.” 

 

If you are interested in booking an appointment, please call your GP Practice.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sickness Certificates

You do not require a doctor's sickness certificate for any illness lasting seven days or less. Your employer may, however, require you to complete a self-certification form (SC2) which is available from your employer or on the HMRC website.

Evidence that you are sick

If you are sick for more than seven days, your employer can ask you to give them some form of medical evidence to support payment of SSP (Statutory Sick Pay).

It is up to your employer to decide whether you are incapable of work. A medical certificate, now called a 'Statement of Fitness for Work’ (see below) from your doctor is strong evidence that you are sick and would normally be accepted, unless there is evidence to prove otherwise.

You could also provide evidence from someone who is not a medical practitioner, e.g. a dentist. Your employer will decide whether or not this evidence is acceptable. If your employer has any doubts, they may still ask for a medical certificate from your GP.

Statement of Fitness for Work - ’Fit Note'

The 'fit note' was introduced on 6 April 2010. With your employer's support, the note will help you return to work sooner by providing more information about the effects of your illness or injury.

For more information see the DirectGov website (where this information was sourced)

 
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