GP fit notes

How to get a fit note

You can request a fit note from your GP using our online system to complete a form. Once you have completed the form, your GP will get in contact to either issue a fit note to say that you’re fit to work or book an appointment to see you face-to-face. This depends on your illness and whether you’ve been in hospital.

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.

Evidence that you are sick

If you are sick for more than seven days, your employer can ask you to give them some form of medical evidence to support payment of SSP (statutory sick pay).

It is up to your employer to decide whether you are incapable of work. A medical certificate, now called a ‘Statement of Fitness for Work’ (see below) from your doctor is strong evidence that you are sick and would normally be accepted, unless there is evidence to prove otherwise.

You could also provide evidence from someone who is not a medical practitioner, e.g. a dentist. Your employer will decide whether or not this evidence is acceptable. If your employer has any doubts, they may still ask for a medical certificate from your GP.

NHS 111 can provide evidence if you have had or isolated because of Coronavirus. Please visit their website here for information.

Statement of Fitness for Work – ’Fit Note’

The ‘fit note’ was introduced on 6 April 2010. With your employer’s support, the note will help you return to work sooner by providing more information about the effects of your illness or injury.

For more information see the DirectGov website (where this information was sourced).

Further information

You can find more information about fit notes on the NHS website.