Fit note
What it really means
The official name for the doctor's statement about your fitness for work (it replaced the old "sick note"). It can say you are "not fit for work" or "may be fit" with changes, such as lighter duties. Needed after more than 7 days off sick.
Context, tips & common mistakes
For the first seven calendar days of illness — weekends included — you self-certify: tell your employer, fill in their form if they have one, and no doctor is involved. GP surgeries will generally refuse to write notes for short illnesses, so do not burn an appointment asking. From day eight you need a fit note, which can be issued digitally without a face-to-face visit and, in many settings, by professionals other than doctors.
The modern fit note often says 'may be fit for work' with suggested adjustments — lighter duties, phased return, home working — which your employer should genuinely consider. NHS fit notes for sickness absence are free; watch out for online services selling 'sick notes' instantly, which employers may not accept.
Example conversation
What you could say back
No spoken reply needed for this one.