Sick (fit) notes

Fit notes are issued to patients by doctors following an assessment of their fitness for work. A fit note is issued after the first seven days of sickness absence (when patients can self-certify) if the doctor assesses that the patient’s health affects their fitness for work.

The doctor can decide the patient is ‘unfit for work’ or ‘may be fit for work subject to the following advice…’ with accompanying notes on suggested adjustments or adaptations to the job role or workplace.

If you are off work due to illness and need evidence for your employer, please read the following guidance:

1. Self-Certification (First 7 Calendar Days)

For the first 7 days of your illness, you do not need a fit note from the GP. You can self-certify using your employer’s self-certification form or by completing an SC2 form (available from HMRC or your employer).

2. GP Fit Note (After 7 Days)

If your illness lasts longer than 7 calendar days, you may require a GP-issued fit note.

Please contact us via our Klinik online system to request one. You will be asked to provide details about your illness and current symptoms.

Note: Fit notes can be issued based on a clinical assessment. In some cases, this may not require a face-to-face appointment.

3. Schools and Education Settings

We do not issue fit (sick) notes for schools, colleges, or universities.

These institutions should not require medical evidence for short-term sickness.