16 March 2020

Proof in relation to employee self-isolation

As of 16 March 2020, the government has advised that anyone developing symptoms of coronavirus, whether this is yourself or someone in your household, however mild, should self-isolate for 14 days and that they do not need to call their GP or NHS24 (NHS 111) to self-isolate.

They are only advised to contact their GP or NHS24 if symptoms worsen or are no better after 7 days. This means that many individuals will be unable to produce evidence to support their self-isolation, at least in the early stages.

After 7 days, if an individual has evidence, from their GP or NHS24, that they have been advised to remain in self-isolation or are unwell, you can ask to see this (in line with the worker's contract, and your sickness absence policy).

However, it remains to be seen how easy it will be for employees to obtain written evidence amidst the coronavirus outbreak. The government has stated: "We strongly suggest that employers use their discretion around the need for medical evidence for a period of absence where an employee is advised to stay at home due to suspected COVID-19, in accordance with the public health advice being issued by the government."