What is a fit note / fitness to work certificate ?

For anyone who has been off work with illness for more than 7 consecutive days, a fit note provides evidence to their employer about the cause of the absence and relevant advice on how to enable the employee to remain in or support their return to work.

Does my fit note need to be signed ?

As from April 2022 legislation changes removed the need for fit notes to be signed in ink.

This change made it possible for eligible healthcare professionals to certify fit notes digitally and also for patients to receive their fitness to work notes via digital channels such as emails.

What are the changes to sickness notes / fit notes from the 1st July 2022 ?

As from the 1st July 2022 the government has extended who is legally allowed to sign doctors / fit notes.

Who can now sign doctors / fit notes ?

As from the 1st July 2022 sick notes / fitness to work certificates can now be signed by:

• Doctor or general practitioner
• Nurses
• Occupational therapists
• Pharmacists
• Physiotherapists

Why have changes been made to who can sign sickness certificates / fit to work note ?

The aim of the changes is to support and empower better conversations about work and health between employers/employees by making it easier to get this advice certified by the most relevant healthcare professional.

These changes should also help reduce pressure on doctors.