Sick Certificates & Fit to work Notes

For the first 7 days that you are unable to work through sickness you can complete a self certification form. The seven days includes days that you don’t normally work, so when you work out how long you’ve been off sick, you should include weekends and bank holidays. This form can be obtained from your employer. You can also download the self-certification form from the .gov.uk website. The practice does not issue self certification forms.

If you are in hospital, they will provide you with a sick note. They should also include any period necessary after you leave hospital. If necessary, this can be extended by your GP when you return home.

After the first 7 days, you will need a sick note from your GP. If necessary, this can be backdated to ensure continuity of sickness absence so an immediate appointment is not necessary.

If you want to see your doctor solely to extend a sick note, please check with the receptionist whether an appointment is necessary.

Sick notes cannot be post-dated. If you are not signed off sick, you are regarded as fit to work and a ‘return to work note’ is not required.