Employees who are unable to work for more than seven days because of coronavirus (COVID-19) can now obtain an “isolation note” through a new online service. The new isolation note, which can be used by employees as evidence of their coronavirus-related absence from work (either because they have symptoms or they live with someone who has symptoms) and so cannot work, is a temporary alternative to the fit note for use during the coronavirus pandemic. Employees can continue to self-certify for their first calendar week of absence.

The new online service is available through the NHS website, NHS 111 Online or via the NHS app. After answering a few questions, an isolation note will be emailed to the user. If they don’t have an email address, they can have the note sent to a trusted family member or friend, or directly to their employer. The service can also be used to generate an isolation note on behalf of someone else.