Sick Notes

You do not need a fit note from the practice if you have been off sick for 7 calendar days or less.

You should self-certify your sickness absence using a self-certification form. You can get this from your employer or download the form online.

If you are off work because of illness, your employer may ask you for evidence of your sickness absence.

If you are off work for more than 7 calendar days, your employer may ask you for a fit note. A fit note is also sometimes called a sick note or Statement of Fitness for Work.

If your employer asks for a note before 7 days

If your employer insists on medical evidence during the first 7 days, this is not covered by normal NHS fit note arrangements and a private fee will apply.

If your illness continues beyond the period covered by your current fit note, you can request an extension online.

A clinician will review your request. If further information or a consultation is needed, the practice will contact you.

Please request your extension in good time, but do not worry if your fit note has recently expired. Fit notes can usually be backdated where clinically appropriate.

If your absence from work was due to a hospital admission, the hospital should usually issue a fit note to cover the period of your admission.

Please discuss this with the hospital.