How to get a sick leave certificate

A sick leave certificate is a medical document based on an assessment of your health at that time. The clinician may record that you are unable to work, need modified duties or need time away for recovery, depending on the findings and workplace requirements. It is not simply a note confirming that you requested leave. Symptoms such as infection, injury, severe pain, exhaustion or Burnout may affect work capacity, but the certificate should reflect your individual situation.

Book a GP Consultation and explain when symptoms began, how they affect tasks such as standing, driving, concentrating or communicating, and whether your role has safety-sensitive duties. Bring relevant medical information and the details your employer requires on the document. Ask how the certificate will be issued and what to do if you remain unwell when it ends. Do not work through symptoms that could put you or others at risk without discussing suitable restrictions with a clinician.

Arrange prompt assessment if illness is worsening, prevents basic activities or needs documentation for absence. Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, sudden weakness, confusion, heavy bleeding or a serious injury. If exhaustion, low mood, loss of interest or sleep problems are persistent, mention them during the assessment because they may need care beyond a certificate.

Ask what work limitations are clinically appropriate, how long the certificate covers, when you should be reviewed and what symptoms require earlier help. Clarify whether a follow-up certificate needs another assessment.