Sick (fit) notes

If you’ve been off sick for more than 7 days

If you have been ill for more than 7 days you will need a doctor’s certificate. These certificates are called ‘Fitness To Work’ Certificates. The doctor may call you or arrange for an appointment.

Your certificate will be ready for collection within a week unless the doctor wishes to see you again

To request a sick note:

Extending your sick note

If you have already had a Sick Note (Fit Note) for an illness your Doctor may not need to see you to issue an additional Sick Note. Please complete the sick note request form. We will contact you to let you know when you can collect your Sick / Fit Note or we may contact you to arrange an appointment.

If you’ve been off sick for 7 days or less

If you have been ill for 7 days or less you don’t need to see a doctor. You can complete a Self Certification form yourself. However some employers insist on a doctor’s note regardless. A doctor’s note under these circumstances may involve a charge.

Many employers have their own self-certification forms. If your employer doesn’t have its own form you can download the Self Certification Form. Please print it, fill it in and hand it in to your employer. You do not need to see a doctor.

Self Certification form (PDF)

Find out more about sick notes on the NHS website.