A ‘Statement of Fitness for Work’ (fit note) is a medical certificate from your GP – or another health care professional involved in your care. It says if you’re fit to work or not. It’s sometimes also called a ‘sick note’.
If you’ve been off sick for 7 days or less
You do not require a doctor’s sickness certificate for any illness lasting seven days or less. Your employer may ask you to confirm that you’ve been ill. You can do this by filling in a self-certification form (SC2) which is available from your employer or on the HMRC website.
If you’ve been off sick for more than 7 days
If you are sick for more than seven days, your employer will usually ask you to get a fit note from your GP.
It is up to your employer to decide whether you are incapable of work. A fit note from your doctor is strong evidence that you are sick and would normally be accepted, unless there is evidence to prove otherwise.
To request a fit (sick) note:
* fill out an on-line form
* phone or visit the surgery from 8am-6pm.
Please note: if you are requesting a fit note for the first time (or for a new condition) you will need an appointment with a doctor. You will be offered the first available appointment we have. Requests for fit notes are not classed as a medical emergency.
Fit notes can be back-dated (but not forward dated).
For more information see the DirectGov website