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 self certification form (SC2) which is available from your employer or via the HMRC SC2 Form.

Further information is available on the NHS website.

If you are sick and off work for more than 7 days, your employer will normally ask you to provide a medical certificate (also known as a sick or fit note) from your GP - please make an appointment in the usual way. 

When you need a certificate will also depend on your employer's company policy on sick leave (or sickness absence). This policy should tell you how many days you can be off sick before you need a note.

To find out about your employer's policy:

• ask your team leader or supervisor, or
• speak to someone from your human resources (HR) or personnel department

Further information is available on the HMRC website or NHS website.

If your certificate runs out, but you are still sick, you will need to consult the doctor again before you can get a further certificate.  You can do this by either making an appointment in the usual way or requesting an eConsult.

Certificates can be back-dated so it is not necessary to make an emergency appointment to renew. If you attend an emergency appointment for the purpose of getting a medical certificate you will be asked to rebook.