Petition · Department of Health and Social Care

Allow self-certification of illness for up to 28 days, rather than 7 days.

Closed 65 signatures

What the petition asks

During the COVID-19 pandemic, a worker could self-certify for up to 28 days of an illness, rather than just 7 days. We would like Government to reintroduce the 28 day certification rule.
We think sickness certification is a large administrative burden on employers, healthcare providers, and citizens who are ill. There are many instances of illness where citizens do not need to visit a GP or other healthcare provider, but require more than 7 days to recover. Access to a GP appointment within 7 days is rare due to pressures on the NHS. We think citizens feeling they must consult their GP within a certain time frame for a Fit Note adds further unnecessary pressure to this system.

Timeline

30 Jan 2025 Petition opened for signatures
30 Jul 2025 Closed to new signatures

Key facts

Signatures 65
Status Closed
Department Department of Health and Social Care
Opened 30 Jan 2025
Closed 30 Jul 2025

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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 17 Aug 2026.