Sickness Certificates

You do not require 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 from your employer or on the HMRC website.

Evidence that you are sick

If you are sick for more than seven 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.

To request a 'fit note' please download and complete our Fit Note Request Form and hand it into the surgery. Alternatively you can collect the form from us. Please ensure you complete your request form in full to avoid any delay. Alternatively click here to return to our Appointments page where you can request a 'fit note' online via our eConsult service.

For more information on fit notes see the DirectGov website

"Return to Work Notes"

Since the introduction of "Fit Notes" there is no need to have a "Return to Work Note" if you want to go back to work or return to your normal duties before or at the end date on your fit note. However some employer request a private certificate in these circumstances. There is a charge for a private certificate

For more information see Government guidelines