Under current legislation a Patient can “self-certificate” for the first seven days of any illness. The self-certificate (Form SC2) is available from your employer. We do not normally issue sickness certificates for the first week.
Your doctor is only able to issue a certificate if they, themselves, are able to ascertain that you have been ill or if they have appropriate documentary evidence from another health professional of your incapacity. Without such evidence of incapacity they will be unable to issue you with a sickness certificate.
After the first week, if you require a free Statement of Fitness for Work (Fit / Sick Note), please make an appointment with the doctor as these are obtained as part of a consultation with a doctor.
If you have already seen a health professional you may not need to book a GP appointment, please contact reception who will advise you as to whether an appointment is required.
If your employer insists on a certificate within the first seven days, your doctor may issue a private sickness certificate for which there will be a charge. A receipt will be issued if requested.