If you are unwell and need to take time off work, you will be required to give your employer confirmation of your reasons for being off work. Depending on the length of your absence you may require a fit note from your GP.
Absence up to 7 days
If your absence lasts no more than 7 days (including non working days, public holidays and weekends) then you should speak to your employer about self certification.
For further information please visit www.gov.uk – Taking sick leave for more information.
Many employers have their own self-certification forms however, if your employer does not then you find further information here Ask your employer for Statutory Sick Pay - Ask your employer for Statutory Sick Pay - GOV.UK (tax.service.gov.uk). Please print this, fill it in and hand it in to your employer. You do not need to see a GP solely for this.
Absence lasting longer than 7 days
You will be required to give your employer a doctor’s ‘fit note’ (sometimes called a ‘sick line’) if you have been ill for more than 7 days in a row and have been absent from work. This includes non-working days, such as weekends and Public holidays.
If you are off work with any other illness, you can get a fit note from a GP or hospital doctor.
How do I request a fit note?
First Fit Note
If you have been absent from work for more than 7 days then you should request a fit note from your GP. If you have an upcoming appointment with your GP or ANP relating to your illness then they can provide this for you. If not then please complete a fit note request form. This form can be obtained from reception or click here to complete our online request form. Once you have submitted this form it will take 72 hours for your fit note to be ready to collect. If the Clinician requires to discuss your absence further then they will contact you.
Continuation Fit Note
If you require a continuation of your fit note then you should request this from your GP. If you have an upcoming appointment with your GP or ANP relating to your illness then they can provide this for you. If not then please complete a fit note request form. This form can be obtained from reception or click here to complete our online request form. Once you have submitted this form it will take 72 hours for your fit note to be ready to collect. If the Clinician requires to discuss your absence further then they will contact you.
Returning to Work
If you plan to return to work you do not require a fit note from your GP unless you plan to return on amended duties or a phased return basis. If you have an upcoming appointment with your GP or ANP relating to your illness then they can provide this for you. If not then please complete a fit note request form. This form can be obtained from reception or click here to complete our online request form. Once you have submitted this form it will take 72 hours for your fit note to be ready to collect. If the Clinician requires to discuss your absence further then they will contact you.