How to call in sick professionally

Calling in sick when you're actually sick should be straightforward — but for many people it's a source of anxiety. Here's exactly what to say, what to send and what your rights are.

Your basic rights when sick

In the UK, you do not need a doctor's note (fit note) for the first 7 days of illness. You can self-certify. After 7 calendar days, your employer can request a fit note from your GP or a hospital. You cannot be dismissed solely for being ill, though long-term absence follows a different process.

How to notify your employer

Follow your company's absence policy — most require you to:

• Notify your line manager (not just send an email to HR)
• Contact them before your shift starts or by a specified time
• Use a specific method — phone call vs text vs email (check your contract)

When in doubt, call. A phone call is harder to ignore and avoids any ambiguity about tone.

What to say on the phone

Keep it brief and matter-of-fact. You don't owe detailed medical information.

Sick day email templates

Short-term illness (1–2 days)

Likely multi-day illness

What your employer cannot ask

• The specific nature of your illness (though you may choose to share it)
• For you to return before you're well
• For a doctor's note before 7 days have passed