Get a Fit/Sick Note
If you’re unwell and cannot work, you may need a fit note (sometimes called a sick note) for your employer.
If you’ve been off sick for more than 7 days
To request a sick note:
- Please complete an online request form
- phone or visit the surgery during surgery hours
Who can Sign a Sick/Fit Note?
Doctors can certify a fit note. Since July 2022, they can also be certified by nurses, occupational therapists, pharmacists and physiotherapists. There is no longer a need for them to be signed.
Sick notes can only be issued when they are due, although they can be back dated, they cannot be future dated. Please do not request emergency appointments for a Sick/Fit Note.
Self-Certificate
If you have been sick for more than four days in a row, but less than seven, you can self–certify your illness using a SC2 form. You can get this form from your employer or the HMRC website. If you are unwell for more than four days, you are advised to contact the surgery to assess your fitness to work.
More than seven days off sick
Usually if you’re off work sick for more than seven days, your employer will ask for a Fit Note (or Statement of Fitness for Work) from your GP or Hospital Doctor.
How to count sick days
You need to count all the days in a row you’ve been sick, including days you don’t normally work such as weekends and bank holidays.
Statement of Fitness for Work
The Doctor will provide you with a Statement of Fitness for Work (‘Fit Note’) if you are still not well enough to work. Your employer will most likely request this statement as evidence to support payment of Statutory Sick Pay (SSP).
Further information is available on the Direct.Gov website.
When do I need a Fit Note?
The NHS Information website provides further details about Sick or Fit Notes.
Private Certificates
If you or your employer need further information concerning your period(s) of illness, then your doctor may require to issue you with a letter. Please note that a charge may apply for this service. Please check with our reception team.