Fitness for work forms

You do not require a doctor's sickness certificate for any illness lasting seven days or less. Your employer may however require you to complete a self-certification form (SC2). The seven days includes days that you don’t normally work, so when you work out how long you’ve been off sick, you should include weekends and bank holidays. This form can be obtained from your employer or you can download the self-certification form from the .gov.uk website. The practice does not issue self certification forms.

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

If you are in hospital, they will provide you with a sick note. They should also include any period necessary after you leave hospital. If necessary, this can be extended by your GP when you return home.

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.

Statement of fitness for work - 'fit note'

The 'fit note' was introduced on 6 April 2010. 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. For more information see the DirectGov website (where this information was sourced)