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Sick certificates

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. If you have already been seen by your Doctor about this illness your certificate will be sent to you within a week

To request a sick note:

 

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

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 here. Please print it, fill it in and hand it in to your employer. You do not need to see a Doctor.

 

 

Find out more about sick notes on the NHS website.

Date published: 8th October, 2014
Date last updated: 1st October, 2025