Sick note

[Leanne17]

Hi

I'm 25 weeks pregnant and really struggling with back ache (I have two boys already) which can shoot into my legs.

Do I have to self certify or can I go to the doctors and they will give me a sick note ?

My job altho not particularly demanding is retail so I'm stood up all day which does not help me in the slightest. I have asked for a chair but get dirty looks and feel uncomfortable sitting down. I work three days a week which sounds like nothing but when your running around with two kids etc and a house to look after is draining when in pain. (Especially now it's the summer holidays)

I'd just like a couple of weeks to do 'nothing' and take it easy with my partner being at home.

Sorry for rambling I'm not one for usually having chunks of time off sick so unsure how it works.

Tia

Xx

You can only self certify for a short period of time so if you want a couple of weeks off you would need signed off by a GP

You can't self certify for a couple of weeks. You need a doctors certificate.

I'm not sure wanting to do nothing for a couple of weeks qualifies as a reason though!

You can self certify for a calendar week if you are sick.
It sounds to me like you need to use annual leave though (kids, holidays, need to do nothing).

I know you have to self certify for seven days but wanted to know if you could get a doctors note for the full two weeks instead of self certifying etc...

And doing 'nothing' is enough reason when some days I can struggle to even move or walk let alone stand behind a till all day!

Up to the doctor if they will give you a note but yes theoretically they could.
Your work need to do a risk assessment for you. Can you go to management about your struggles?

Be careful that it doesn't impact your SMP if your sick pay is less than your normal pay. Good link here: www.maternityaction.org.uk/advice-2/mums-dads-scenarios/pregnant/sickness-during-pregnancy-and-maternity-leave/