GP sick notes

How to get a Fit note (sick note)

You can request a note from your GP using our online system to complete a form. Once you have completed the form, your GP will either issue a sick note or request that you book an appointment. This depends on your illness and whether you've been in hospital.

For illnesses and injuries which have involved the hospital or A&E (such as a broken wrist) we are able to use Consultant letters as proof of illness and can in many cases safely give you a sick note without you having to come into the surgery. The hospital wards and A&E can issue you with a sick note if you ask them at the time.

If you have a long term illness we are often able to give you a sick note from your records without you having to come into the surgery to be seen.

At the appointment, your GP will assess you and give you medical advice. Based on your appointment, they will be able to tell if you are fit for work but might need to make some possible changes, or if you are not fit for work. You can use the link below to request a fit note from your GP.

When do you need a fit note

Seven days off sick or less

If you're off sick for less than seven days, then your employer shouldn't ask for a fit note. However, they can ask you to confirm that you've been ill and that you're better to return to work. This is called a self-certification, and you can get the form from your employer.

More than seven days off sick

If you're off work sick for more than seven days, then your employer might ask for a fit note to show evidence from your GP that you were not fit to work. You can use our online system to request a GP fit note.

Further information

You can find more information about fit notes on the When do I need a fit note page on the NHS website or the Government website.