If you are unwell and unable to work, you may need a fit note for your employer. You only need a fit note if you have been off work for more than 7 calendar days.
Self-certification
If you are off work for 7 days or fewer, you do not need a fit note from a healthcare professional. Your employer may ask you to complete a self-certification form (SC2), which is available from your employer or via HMRC.
If you are off work for more than 7 days, your employer may ask for a fit note from a healthcare professional.If the fit note relates to an ongoing problem that we are already aware of, please submit an eConsult or contact the surgery for advice.
If the fit note is for a new medical problem, please submit an eConsult or book an appointment, as a GP may need to assess you.
Fit notes can be backdated, so it is not necessary to request an urgent appointment for renewal.
If you are under the care of a hospital team, your fit note should be issued by the hospital rather than the practice.
Useful Links:
Getting a fit note – NHS UK
Fit note: Guidance for patients and employees – GOV.UK
Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) – GOV.UK
