Sick (fit) notes

You do not require a doctor’s sickness certificate for any illness lasting seven days or less. Your employer may however require you to complete a self-certification form (SC2) which is available from your employer or on the HMRC Website by clicking on the following link: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/statutory-sick-pay-employees-statement-of-sickness-sc2

If you are off sick for more than four days you can apply for Statutory Sick Pay. For information on this and how to apply online visit: https://www.gov.uk/statutory-sick-pay

And: Statutory Sick Pay (SSP): Employee’s statement of sickness form

If you need a sick note from a doctor go to the Home page of our website and complete a Patchs request by logging in and submitting an admin request.

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 the GOV.UK website: https://www.gov.uk/statutory-sick-pay/how-to-claim

Please note, Fitness for Work notes can not be backdated. You will need to speak to a GP to discuss your condition and they will issue the certificate from that date.

***If you require a fit note for the first time of your illness, and after the 7 days self certification, please complete a clinical PATCHS as you may require an appointment before issue****

***If you require an extension of your current fit note, please complete an admin PATCHS online. Ensure you enter the dates to and from and the reason.****