Fit Notes

Statement of Fitness for Work – ‘Fit Note’

You do not require a doctor’s 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 government website.

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, called a ‘Statement of Fitness for Work’ from your doctor is strong evidence that you are sick and would normally be accepted, unless there is evidence to prove otherwise.

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.

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.

Fit notes during the COVID-19 pandemic

Page last reviewed: November 7th, 2023
Next review due: February 19th, 2022