Off work?

If you have been off work for less than 7 days you do not need a doctor’s note. After 7 days you will need a ‘Fit Note’ (previously known as a ‘Sick Note’) which can be completed by the doctor as appropriate. You may also need a Fit Note if you are unable to work due to illness and claiming benefits.

If you are in hospital or having hospital care (eg after an accident or hospital admission) your hospital team should supply you with a Fit Note to cover your expected absence in full. We may not need to see you to supply a Fit Note if it is a continuation of a previous one – please check with the reception team before you book an appointment.

You do not need a ‘Return to Work’ note and you do not need to stay off work until the end of your line if you recover sooner than expected. You may need light duties or different hours when you first return to work- please discuss this with your employer and your doctor. A Fit Note may be needed to cover this.

For further details or information click here.