Sick pay and fit notes in the UK

Read the sick absence policy in your contract or the employee handbook to know whom to call and when.

• Usually you call your direct manager or the human resources department before your work starts or in the first hour, and state that you are ill and when you expect to return, and do not state medical details unless you wish.
• The company records your absence, and on your return you fill a self-certificate form for the first seven days, or rely on the company's internal system.
• If you are away or on holiday review the company's policy.
• The employer may not force you to return before you recover.
• And absence correspondence is done in writing if possible.
• And if you are an employee on a zero-hours contract you may also get SSP if you meet the conditions.

If your illness continues beyond seven consecutive days (including holidays) request a fit note from your GP or hospital (or another authorised health professional).

• The note states that you are not fit for work, or may be fit for work with adjustments such as fewer hours, different tasks or equipment.
• It is given for the necessary period (up to about three months or more depending on the case), and can be extended.
• It is handed to the employer.
• And the note is often provided digitally via the NHS App or messages.
• You do not need a paid certificate from the doctor, since it is free from the GP within the NHS.
• If the surgery requests a fee for another letter that is a different service.
• And keep a copy, since it is proof of your right to SSP.

Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is about 116 pounds a week (changes yearly) paid by the employer for up to 28 weeks to an employee who is ill for four or more consecutive days (including holidays), with a recent change that payment starts from the first day instead of the fourth day and the lower earnings limit is removed (check the rules in force).

• It is required that you be an employee and that your weekly income reach a minimum.
• Many employers offer Company Sick Pay at full or part pay for a longer period according to the contract, so ask to see it. And the self-employed are not entitled to SSP, but may qualify for Universal Credit or New Style ESA.
• Contact Acas or Citizens Advice if the employer refuses to pay what you deserve.

On your return your manager may conduct a return to work interview asking about your condition and what you need.

• And you can request reasonable adjustments: a phased return with fewer hours, different tasks, tools and equipment, or a flexible schedule.
• If you suffer from a disability or long-term illness (substantially affecting your daily life) the Equality Act 2010 obliges the employer to make reasonable adjustments and bans discrimination.
• And the government may provide Access to Work to support the costs of equipment and transport for those with a disability.
• And if your illness recurs the HR manager or Occupational Health may meet you.
• Tell the employer what you need frankly.
• And he has no right to dismiss you because of illness without a fair process.

A long absence may lead to an administrative process to review your capability to work, but the employer must follow fair procedures: request a medical report, discuss possible adjustments, wait a reasonable period, and may dismiss for capability only after that.

• If you are dismissed because of illness or disability without a fair procedure you may claim compensation via Acas early conciliation then an Employment Tribunal within three months less a day.
• And if your SSP ends you may qualify for Universal Credit or New Style ESA, and receive financial support from the government if your income is low.
• And mental health help is available via NHS Talking Therapies without referral sometimes.
• And speak to the employer and the doctor early, and inform your union.

After how many days do you need a fit note?