Employees off sick? Fit notes

20 December 2021

A temporary change has recently been quietly introduced which will be relevant to all operators with employees.  Employees can now self-certify their sickness for up to 28 days. In practice, this means they only need to attend a GP for a ‘fit note’ if they have taken sick leave and been ill for more than 28 days. 28 days actually also includes non-working days.  Previously, they had to provide a fit note after 7 days. This temporary change will be effective for all absences between 17 December 2021 and 26 January 2022 and is said to help the NHS concentrate on the COVID booster programme.

Please contact a member of our employment team if you need any advice on 01254 828300.