Fit Notes

Fitness to Work Certificates, also known as “sick notes” or “doctor’s notes”, these certificates are sometimes required by employers to claim sick pay or incapacity benefits. They are only issued if you are medically unfit for work for more than 7 consecutive days.

How to Request a Fit Note

The easiest way to request a certificate is through our online consultation service. This allows you to submit your request quickly without waiting on the phone. Alternatively, you can call our Patient Support Assistants on 01865 340558.

Important Information

• Patients requesting a sickness certificate will normally need to be assessed by the certifying doctor, unless we have a written report from another healthcare professional.
• Certificates cannot usually be issued retrospectively for more than a couple of days, unless you have already been seen by a GP or hospital doctor.
• It is not essential for the certificate to be provided immediately when it becomes due, but please allow time for processing.

Self-Certification (First 7 Days)

For the first 7 days of illness, you do not need a doctor’s note. Your employer may ask you to complete a self-certification form (SC2), which you can:

• Get from your employer
• Download a template from the HMRC website.