How Do I Get a Sick Note?

• There are strict legal guidelines that Doctors have to follow when issuing sick notes.
• You DO NOT need to see the Doctor for an illness lasting less than 7 days.
• You only need a Doctor's certificate during the first 7 days of illness if you wish to claim benefits other than Statutory Sick Pay (SSP), eg. benefits under the private insurance scheme or to take your pre-booked holiday as sick leave instead.
• Hospital Doctors provide certificates for patients who are currently in hospital.
• If your employer insists that you provide a sick note then, for a small fee, the Doctor can issue you with a private certificate.

Self-Certificates

• You do not normally need a Doctor's certificate for the first 7 days of illness.
• The Statutory Sick Pay Regulations state that employers are required to accept self-certification notes (filled in by you) for the first 7 days of illness.
• These are available from the Practice and your employer may also hold some.
• Alternatively you can download and print off a copy yourself click here.

All employers must comply with these regulations

• You do not require any form of certification during the first 4 days off work.
• If you take up to 7 days because you not well enough to attend work, then you must fill in a self-certificate.
• Anything OVER 7 days means you will need a Doctor's certificate and will need to see the Doctor so that your condition can be checked over.

Private Sick Notes

• Some employers or insurance schemes may ask you to provide a private sick note.
• There will be a small fee payable to the Practice if you require a private note for the first seven days of your illness.