Sick (fit) notes

The ‘fit note’ was introduced on in April 2010 replacing the doctor’s ‘Sick Note’.  A ‘fit note’ with your employer’s support may help you return to work sooner by providing more information about the effects of your illness or injury. For more information see the Direct Gov website .

You do not require a doctor’s ‘fit note’ for any illness lasting seven days or less. Your employer may however require you to complete a self-certification form (SC2) which is you can print by clicking here or complete online on the HMRC website . For any illness lasting longer than seven days you will need to see or speak to the doctor for him/her to issue a ‘fit note’ and for any subsequent renewal of the certificate. If your employer insists on a ‘fit note’ for 7 days or less a charge will be levied.