Private Sick Notes in London

What is a sick note (fit note)?

A sick note — officially known as a Statement of Fitness for Work or fit note — is a medical document issued by a qualified healthcare professional confirming that you are either not fit for work or may be fit for work with certain adjustments. Since 2010, the traditional sick note was replaced by the fit note system in the United Kingdom, reflecting a shift towards helping people return to work safely where possible, rather than simply certifying absence.

Fit notes are issued on the official Med3 form and can include one of two statements: not fit for work or may be fit for work. If your doctor selects the latter, they may recommend adjustments such as amended duties, altered hours, workplace adaptations, or a phased return to work. Your employer is not legally obliged to make these changes, but the fit note provides a clear clinical recommendation that can support discussions with your workplace. At Spital Clinic, our private GPs can issue fit notes promptly, including on the same day, helping you avoid unnecessary delays during a difficult time. Under current UK rules, employees who are unwell for 7 consecutive days or fewer can self-certify their absence — meaning you do not need a doctor's note for short illnesses. However, if your illness lasts longer than 7 days, your employer can reasonably request a fit note. Private fit notes from Spital Clinic are widely accepted by employers across the UK and can be issued following either a face-to-face or online GP consultation.

When do you need a sick note?

How are sick notes issued at Spital Clinic?

You may need a fit note in several common scenarios. The most frequent reason is when you have been absent from work due to illness or injury for more than 7 consecutive days (including weekends and bank holidays). Your employer is legally entitled to ask for medical evidence of your condition from the eighth day onwards, and a fit note fulfils this requirement. It is worth noting that some employers may have internal policies requesting evidence sooner, although this is not a statutory obligation. Fit notes are also commonly required for conditions such as mental health difficulties, including anxiety, depression, and stress-related illness, which are among the leading causes of workplace absence in the UK. Musculoskeletal problems — such as back pain and joint injuries — are another frequent reason, as are post-surgical recovery periods and acute infections like pneumonia. In each case, a GP will assess whether you are currently fit for any form of work and provide appropriate guidance on your note.

You may also need a fit note if you are managing a chronic or long-term condition that periodically affects your ability to work. In these situations, your GP can issue consecutive fit notes and may recommend workplace adjustments to help you remain in employment. If you are unsure whether you need a fit note, our GPs at Spital Clinic can advise you during your appointment and ensure you receive the correct documentation without delay.

What conditions commonly require a sick note?

At Spital Clinic, obtaining a private sick note is a straightforward process designed to minimise stress and waiting times. Our clinic is open 7 days a week, with same-day appointments available both in person at our City of London clinic and via secure video consultations. During your appointment, one of our experienced GPs will take a thorough medical history, discuss your symptoms, and perform any relevant examinations where necessary. If the GP determines that you are unfit for work — or that you may be fit with certain adjustments — they will issue an official fit note on the standard Med3 form. The note will specify the duration of recommended absence, any suggested workplace modifications, and a brief description of your condition (with your consent). Private fit notes from Spital Clinic are fully recognised by UK employers and can be provided in digital format for your convenience. It is important to note that a GP will only issue a fit note where there is a genuine clinical basis to do so. In some cases, your GP may recommend further investigations such as blood tests or imaging to support your diagnosis and recovery plan.

What is the difference between self-certification and a fit note?

A wide range of medical conditions may require a fit note. Mental health conditions — depression, anxiety, burnout, and stress-related illness are among the most common reasons for fit note requests in the UK. Musculoskeletal problems — back pain, neck pain, joint injuries, and musculoskeletal disorders frequently require periods of rest or workplace adjustment. Respiratory infections, post-surgical recovery, acute injuries such as fractures and sprains, chronic conditions including inflammatory bowel disease and autoimmune disorders, pregnancy-related illness, and infectious diseases where attending the workplace could pose a risk to colleagues may all necessitate a fit note. Each fit note is tailored to your specific medical circumstances. Our GPs will only issue a note where there is a genuine clinical need, ensuring the document accurately reflects your health status and supports your recovery.

Your rights, daily life, and recovery

In the UK, there are two main ways to provide your employer with evidence of illness-related absence: self-certification and a fit note. Self-certification applies to absences lasting 7 consecutive days or fewer. During this period, you do not need to visit a doctor — you can simply inform your employer of your illness, and most workplaces will ask you to complete a self-certification form (sometimes called an SC2 form) when you return. This system is designed to reduce unnecessary GP appointments for minor, self-limiting illnesses.

Fit notes are required when your absence extends beyond 7 consecutive days. A qualified healthcare professional must assess your condition and issue the official Med3 form. Since July 2022, fit notes can be issued not only by doctors but also by nurses, occupational therapists, pharmacists, and physiotherapists in certain settings. However, the most common route remains through your GP. At Spital Clinic, we can issue fit notes covering the appropriate period and, where needed, provide follow-up notes for ongoing conditions. It is also worth noting that some employers — particularly in safety-critical industries — may have their own policies requiring medical evidence before 7 days. If you are uncertain about your employer's requirements, our team can help ensure you have the correct documentation.