Asking for a sick note

Once you have been absent from the work for more than one week, you can obtain a sick note from a doctor. This note will give the reason for your absence as well as the length of time you may need to be off work. Sick notes can be provided following a telephone appointment if you are registered with the Health Centre, however if you have not already visited the nurse or doctor about your medical problem, you may need to be seen at the Health Centre.

If you are registered with another doctors practice, a sick notes can be provided if the doctor or nurse has seen you that day and advised time off work. For sick notes relating to long term problems, you should make an appointment to visit your registered doctors' practice.