Sick leave certificate: what to know

A sick leave certificate is issued after a clinician assesses your health and records the period when illness affects your ability to work. It is not simply a form on request: the clinician considers your symptoms, examination findings, job demands, and expected recovery. Your workplace may use the document to record authorised absence.

During a GP consultation, explain when symptoms started, how they limit tasks, and whether your role involves driving, lifting, concentration, or contact with others. The clinician may recommend rest, treatment, modified duties, or a review. Mental health problems can also affect work capacity; burnout may show as exhaustion, poor concentration, sleep problems, or emotional strain and deserves a proper assessment.

Bring identification and any relevant medication details, test results, or discharge paperwork. Check what dates your employer needs and whether the document must be sent through a particular channel. Describe your actual duties rather than only naming a diagnosis. Follow the agreed treatment and keep the certificate secure, since it contains health information.

Arrange an assessment promptly when illness prevents safe work, symptoms are worsening, or you need advice about returning. Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, collapse, confusion, or thoughts of self-harm. If the certificate period is ending and you remain unwell, ask for a review before returning or extending absence.

Ask what work restrictions apply, when reassessment is needed, how the certificate will be provided, and what warning signs should change your plan.