On 17 December the rules regarding sickness self-certification were temporarily changed in a bid to ease the pressure on GPs whilst the vaccine booster programme is in warp speed mode.  Details can be found here Taking sick leave – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

For all absences that start AFTER 10 December employees can now provide a Sickness Self Certification for 28 days in a row (including non-working days) instead of the usual 7 days – they do not require a FIT note until their absence lasts longer than 28 days – employers are being advised that they cannot request a FIT note sooner and that GPs may charge for them if that request is made  

This new system will be in place for any absences that then commence on any day up to and including 26 January

For those that like the actual source info here it is The Statutory Sick Pay (Medical Evidence) Regulations 2021 (legislation.gov.uk)

Any absences that started before 10 December are still subject to the normal 7 day rule

Any covid related absences are still covered by an isolation note obtained from NHS 111 and do not require a FIT note – details here Get an isolation note – NHS (111.nhs.uk)

Don’t forget that whilst SSP is still payable Statutory Sick Pay (SSP): employer guide – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) from day one of covid related absences, employers can no longer claim the SSP back Check if you can claim back Statutory Sick Pay paid to employees due to coronavirus (COVID-19) – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).