Fit Notes (previously known as ‘Sick Notes’)

Sickness for less than seven days 

You do not need 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 here: Employees statement of sickness – SC2

Sickness for more than seven days

If you are sick for more than seven days, your employer can ask you to give them some form of medical evidence. A medical certificate, called a ‘Statement of Fitness for Work’ (Fit Note) (see below) from your doctor is strong evidence that you are sick and would normally be accepted. You could also provide evidence from someone who is not a GP, e.g. a dentist, physiotherapist etc.

Statement of Fitness for Work (‘Fit Note’)

The Fit Note will provide advice to you and your employer about the impact of your health condition and any effect that it may have on your fitness for work.

For more information see the GOV.UK website: Fit note guidance for patients and employees

Requesting a Fit Note

If you need a ‘Fit Note‘ from a doctor for more than seven days absence from work, please complete an Admin Request through Patchs.

Please note, Fit Notes can not be backdated.