Recent changes have been made to allow you to self-certify for the first 7 days of any illness.
This means that you do not need to contact your GP Surgery for a sick note; however, if your employer is insisting on a note, please share the link below.
This change has been made to allow health professionals to focus on our most vulnerable patients whilst assisting with COVID vaccinations.
Non-urgent advice: Patient Notice
If you started your sick leave before 10 December 2021, you must provide proof that you’ve been ill for more than 7 days.
Evidence that you are sick
If you are sick for more than 7 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.