Health Advice - Sick Certificates

If you are off work for less than seven days you do not need a medical certificate from your doctor. You will however need a self certification form. These are available from the Post Office or Department for Work and Pensions (formerly the DSS). If you are employed you will need form SC2; If you are self-employed or unemployed you will need form SC1.

If illness should cause you to be absent from work for a period longer than seven days, you need to book an appointment to see your GP and obtain a medical certificate confirming your illness and inability to work. This will ensure that you receive company sick pay or statutory sick pay (SSP) from the government.

For further information on SSP, other benefits and how being ill may affect or change your claim, please visit the Department of Work and Pensions website at: dwp.gov.uk