How to count sick days

When you work out the number of days that you’ve been sick, you need to count all the days in a row you’ve been sick, including days you do not usually work, such as weekends and bank holidays.

7 days off sick or less

If you’re off work sick for 7 days or less, your employer should not ask for medical evidence that you’ve been ill. Instead they can ask you to confirm that you’ve been ill by completing a self certification form. Many employers have their own self-certification forms.

If your employer doesn’t have its own form you can complete a Self Certification Form online. Please complete it online, print it and hand it in to your employer. You do not need to see a Doctor.

More than 7 days off sick

If you’re off work sick for more than 7 days, your employer will usually ask for a fit note (or Statement of Fitness for Work) from a healthcare professional.

Request a sick note

In some cases a sick note can be issued without an appointment but you may also be asked to book an appointment with a doctor before it is issued.  Please complete the request form and you will be contacted if an appointment is required.