Fit Note
A fit note is a UK doctors statement about whether an employee is not fit for work, or may be fit for work with adjustments, required after 7 days of sickness absence.
legal-terms
Category
beginner
Difficulty
5 min read
Read time
2025-01-15
Updated
Definition
Short definition
A fit note is a UK doctors statement about whether an employee is not fit for work, or may be fit for work with adjustments, required after 7 days of sickness absence.
Detailed explanation
A fit note (officially Statement of Fitness for Work) is issued by doctors for employees who have been off sick for more than 7 consecutive days. It replaced the old sick note in 2010.
The fit note can state the employee is either not fit for work, or may be fit for work with suitable adjustments such as phased return, amended duties, altered hours, or workplace changes.
Employees self-certify for the first 7 days of sickness. From day 8, a fit note is required. Employers must consider adjustments suggested but are not obligated to implement them if not feasible.
Practical guidance
How it works
After 7 days sick, employee gets fit note from doctor. Gives to employer. If may be fit with adjustments, employer considers if feasible. If not feasible, treat as not fit.
Best practices
Have clear fit note policy
Consider adjustments suggested
Use occupational health for complex cases
Plan return to work carefully
Track fit note expiry dates
Legal context
Legal basis
Social Security (Medical Evidence) Regulations 2010
Jurisdiction: United Kingdom
Key provisions
Required from day 8 of sickness
Two options: not fit / may be fit
May be fit includes suggested adjustments
Employer decides if adjustments feasible
Valid up to 3 months initially
Can be issued by GP, hospital, other HCPs
Official source
Frequently asked questions
How long can a fit note be for?
Initially up to 3 months. For ongoing conditions after that, fit notes can be for any period the doctor considers appropriate. Very long-term conditions may get longer notes.
Can I be sacked for too many fit notes?
Employers can fairly dismiss for capability due to illness, but must follow a fair process, consider adjustments, and it should be a last resort. Discrimination risks apply for disability.
Related glossary terms
Sick Leave
Sick leave is time off work taken by an employee due to illness or injury, which may be paid or unpaid depending on employment terms and statutory requirements.
Statutory Sick Pay
Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is the minimum sick pay UK employers must pay eligible employees who are off work due to illness, currently £116.75 per week for up to 28 weeks.
Return to Work
Return to work refers to processes for bringing employees back after absence, including RTW interviews to discuss absence, support needs, and any adjustments required.