Sick Notes (Fit Notes)

What is a Fit Note?

A Fit Note (sometimes called a Sick Note) is a medical certificate that may be required by your employer or the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) if you’re unable to work because of illness.

For the first 7 calendar days of illness, you do not need a Fit Note. You can usually self-certify your absence with your employer.

If you’re still unable to work after 7 days, you may need a Fit Note from a healthcare professional.

Requesting a Fit Note

If you have already discussed your illness with one of our clinicians and need a new or extended Fit Note, you can request one online using Online Book.

If you’ve not previously been assessed for your condition, you may need an appointment before a Fit Note can be issued.

What can a Fit Note say?

A healthcare professional may advise that:

  • You are not fit for work, or
  • You may be fit for work if certain adjustments can be made, such as amended duties, altered hours or workplace adaptations.

How to request a Fit Note

Complete an Online Book Medical Request and include:

  • The reason you need the Fit Note
  • The dates it is required for
  • Whether this is a new request or an extension

Our team will review your request and contact you if any further information is needed.

FAQs

Yes. If your condition has not improved, you can request an extension using Online Book.

A Fit Note can sometimes be backdated if it is clinically appropriate, but this is at the discretion of the clinician.

Yes. Where appropriate, a family member or carer may contact us on your behalf.