You only need a doctor’s note if you are unable to work and are ill for longer than seven calendar days. Some employers insist on a Doctor’s note regardless. A Doctor’s note under these circumstances may involve a charge.
Go to the NHS webpage: When do I need a sick note?
Your employer will provide you with an SC2 self-certificate form for shorter periods of illness.
Follow this link to the online Statutory Sick Pay form
To request a sick note
- Fill in an online form.
- Fill in the form at the bottom of this page.
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.
For more information see www.gov.uk – Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) (where this information was sourced).
Request a sick/fit note online
Fill in the form below to request a sick/fit note.