You only need a fit note if you are off work sick for more than 7 days.

Off sick for 7 days or less

You do not need a fit note. Your employer may ask you to fill in a self-certification form. You can use form SC2 from GOV.UK.

Off sick for more than 7 days

If you have been off work for more than 7 days, you can request a fit note through the NHS App, by telephone or at reception. A doctor, nurse, pharmacist or physiotherapist may need to speak with you before issuing it.

Please allow up to 5 working days for us to process your request. We can send your fit note electronically.

If you were in hospital

Ask the hospital team for a fit note before you leave. They can cover the time you expect to be off.

Going back to work early

You can go back to work before your fit note ends if you feel able to. You do not need to see us again first.

Read more about fit notes on the NHS website

Page last reviewed: 28 October 2026