How to Get a Sick Note from a GP in the UK

A sick note from a GP (also called a fit note or Statement of Fitness for Work) is a document issued by a doctor to confirm that you are unfit for work. It may also include recommendations for a phased return or adjustments to your work routine.

The NHS provides sick notes free of charge if you need them for work-related absences longer than seven days. However, private sick notes or those required for other purposes (e.g., insurance claims) may incur a fee.

You do not need a sick note from a GP for the first seven days of your illness. Instead, you can self-certify by informing your employer. However, if you are unwell for more than seven consecutive days, including weekends and bank holidays, you must obtain a sick note from a doctor.

1. Book an Appointment with Your GP

The most common way to get a sick note from a GP is by scheduling an appointment with your doctor. You can do this by:

• ● Calling your local GP surgery
• ● Booking an appointment online through the NHS website or your GP’s online portal
• ● Visiting your GP surgery in person

During the appointment, your doctor will assess your condition and determine whether you need a sick note.

2. Request a Sick Note Online

Many GP surgeries now offer online consultations. If you are unable to visit your doctor in person, you may be able to request a sick note online through:

• ● Your GP surgery’s website
• ● NHS-approved online services such as eConsult or Patient Access

After reviewing your request, your GP may issue a sick note online, which you can download or receive via email.

3. Use NHS 111 or Walk-in Centres

If you don’t have a registered GP or cannot get an appointment, you can visit an NHS walk-in centre or use the NHS 111 service for guidance. However, these services may not always provide a sick note and may refer you to a GP.

A sick note from a GP typically includes:

• ● Your name and date of birth
• ● Date of assessment
• ● Your GP’s name and signature
• ● A statement confirming that you are unfit for work
• ● The expected duration of your illness
• ● Any recommendations for workplace adjustments (if applicable)

Your sick note will specify how long your GP recommends you stay off work. This can be:

• ● A fixed period (e.g., two weeks)
• ● Indefinite, requiring a follow-up assessment
• ● Conditional, with a review date to determine if you’re fit to return to work

If you misplace your sick note from a GP, you should:

• ● Contact your GP surgery and request a duplicate
• ● Check if your GP can send you an electronic copy

GPs are not obligated to provide duplicates for free, so there may be a small fee.

Yes, GPs can issue sick notes retrospectively if you were previously unwell but unable to visit the doctor at the time. However, they may ask for evidence or details about your illness.

A GP may refuse to issue a sick note if they believe you are fit for work. If this happens, you can:

• ● Request a second opinion from another doctor
• ● Discuss alternative work adjustments with your employer
• ● Appeal the decision by providing additional medical evidence

Obtaining a sick note from a GP in the UK is a straightforward process if you follow the correct steps. Remember, you only need a sick note for absences longer than seven days. If you’re unsure, always consult your GP or use online NHS services for guidance. A properly obtained sick note ensures that your health and employment rights are protected.