We use cookies to make this site work. We'd also like to set optional cookies so we can understand how the site is used and improve it. We will not set optional cookies unless you accept them. You can change your choice at any time from the Cookie settings link in the footer.
Strictly necessary cookies
These cookies are required for the site to work. They store your cookie preferences and keep your session secure. They are exempt from consent under PECR Regulation 6(4) because they are essential to deliver the service you have requested.
Optional cookies
Optional cookies help us understand how the site is used and provide additional features such as analytics, accessibility tools and translation. We will only set them if you accept.
Sick (Fit) Notes
Learn how to request a sickness certificate
Request a sick (fit) note
If you’ve been off sick for more than 7 days
If you've been off sick for 7 days 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. You can do this by filling in a form yourself when you return to work. We call this self-certification.
Find out more about sick notes
Schoolchildren sick notes
Please be aware that GPs do not provide sick notes for schoolchildren.
When children are absent from school owing to illness, schools may request a letter from a parent or guardian, and this is no different during an exam period. However, children who have missed exams due to illness are frequently told by schools that a note from a doctor is required; but this cannot be provided by a GP.
Parents/guardians are responsible for excusing their children from school. Aside from the fact that parents/guardians are responsible for excusing their children from school; GPs cannot provide retrospective sickness certification. When a child suffers from a long-term condition, any certification will be provided by the responsible specialist.
The GP Committee has received confirmation from the Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator that Awarding Organisations make no requirement for pupils to obtain a medical certificate in support of their application for special consideration. Students are asked for information in support of their application, but this may take the form of a statement by the school.
The Joint Council for Qualifications has confirmed that as far as they are concerned, if a student was absent from an examination as a result of illness and has the support of the school or centre to be absent, special consideration will be granted on that basis. Awarding organisations do not insist that medical proof is provided.