St Clement's Surgery

Village Health

How Do I Get a Fit Note?

From the 6th April 2010 a new Fit note has been introduced which has replaced the doctors sick note. The new fit note is called the 'Statement of Fitness for Work' and will be used in England, Scotland and Wales. It will have more information than the present doctor's sick note.

The Main changes mean:

Your GP is able to say if they think you are 'not fit for work' or 'may be fit for work'
Your GP can add advice to the note for your employer on how simple changes to the job you do may allow you to return to work earlier.
There will be fewer kinds of medical statement forms issued by GPs.

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 seven days of illness if you wish to claim benefits other than Statutory Sick Pay: For example, 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, then the doctor can issue you with a private certificate for a small fee.

Self-Certificates

You do not normally need a doctor's certificate for the first seven 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 seven days of illness.
These are available from your employer.
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 FOUR days off work.
If you take up to SEVEN days because you not well enough to attend work, then you must fill in a self-certificate.
Anything OVER seven days means you will need a doctor's certificate and will need to visit a doctor to acquire this.


St Clement’s Surgery
Village Health,
Churchgate Way
Terrington St Clement
Kings Lynn,
Norfolk
PE34 4LZ



Stacks Image 365
01553 828475
Stacks Image 372
01553 827051