We'll give you a sick note because we're too scared to say no! GPs admit they dole out letters to patients they haven't even SEEN over fears they'll get negative reviews online

GPs working in the NHS are routinely writing sick notes for patients they have not seen, doctors have claimed. Some claim that doctors are 'too scared to refuse' sick notes because they worry patients will become aggressive or write a negative review of the GP practice on social media. In a major speech today, Rishi Sunak will warn that a surge in people signed off sick with mental health conditions is placing 'unsustainable' pressure on the welfare budget The revelation comes after Rishi Sunak announced plans today to strip GPs of their power to sign people off work. However, many GPs welcomed the change, which would see sick notes – known in the NHS as fit notes – become the responsibility of teams of 'specialist work and health professionals'. Key points from PM's sick note speech Piloting using specialist teams to assess what work people can do, rather than GPs signing them off long-term sick Anyone on benefits for 12 months who does not comply with conditions set by their work coach should be stripped of handouts entirely Speeding up shift to Universal Credit for those on 'outdated' legacy benefits A benefit fraud crackdown including new powers to carry out warrants for searches, seizures and arrests 'There needs to be a rethink in how we properly assess long-term or chronic disease,' said Professor Dame Clare Gerada, former president of the Royal College of General Practitioners.