Am I allowed time off work if I am ill?

In short, yes. If you’re too ill to work, tell your boss straight away. Your contract or staff handbook might have instructions about what to do. It’s important to let them know what the problem is and how long you think you’ll be off for. And of course make sure you keep them updated if this changes.

You can self-certify for up to seven days of sickness. This means that you don’t need a certificate from the doctor, but can just tell your work yourself. Your employer might want you to do this in writing, or by filling in a form when you get back to work. If you’re off for more than seven days (including days you don’t usually work) you’ll need to get a doctor’s note.

Statement of fitness for work

The statement might say that you’re too ill to work, but might also suggest ways that you could work around or change your normal job until you’re feeling better.

If you think you could be off sick for a long time, you should let work know as soon as possible so you can chat about how this will affect you. They might be able to make changes to your normal job to help you. But if you’re off for a really long time they don’t always have to keep your job open for you.

Statutory Sick Pay

You may be entitled to Statutory Sick Pay if you are too ill to work. It is paid by your employer for up to 28 weeks.

For more information please visit the following website to see if you are entitled to SSP.

If you’d like any more info, just speak to LUU Advice.