As we approach April 2026, there are important changes coming to statutory sick pay (SSP) that all employers and employees need to be aware of In this article, we will discuss what statutory sick pay is, the changes happening in April 2026, and how it may impact you
Statutory sick pay is a payment made by employers to employees who are unable to work due to illness or injury It is a legal requirement in the UK, and the amount paid is set by the government Currently, the rate of SSP is £96.35 per week, and employees are eligible to receive it if they are ill for at least four days in a row, including non-working days.
However, starting in April 2026, there will be changes to the SSP system The government has announced that the rate of SSP will increase to £100 per week This means that employees who are off sick will receive a slightly higher amount to help support them financially during their time off work
In addition to the increase in the rate of SSP, there will also be changes to the eligibility criteria From April 2026, employees will need to be ill for at least seven days in a row, including non-working days, in order to qualify for SSP This change is designed to ensure that only those who are genuinely unwell receive SSP, preventing abuse of the system.
Employers need to be aware of these changes and update their policies and procedures accordingly statutory sick pay april 2026. It is important for employers to have a clear understanding of their obligations when it comes to SSP, including how to calculate and pay SSP, how long it should be paid for, and what evidence is required from employees to support their claim.
Employees also need to be aware of their rights when it comes to SSP If you are ill and unable to work, you should inform your employer as soon as possible and provide any necessary evidence to support your claim for SSP It is important to keep in regular contact with your employer and provide updates on your condition, as this will help to ensure that your SSP is paid promptly and accurately.
It is also worth noting that SSP is just one form of financial support available to employees who are off sick Depending on your circumstances, you may also be eligible for other benefits such as statutory maternity pay, statutory paternity pay, or universal credit It is important to explore all of the options available to you and seek advice if you are unsure about what you are entitled to.
In conclusion, the changes to statutory sick pay coming into effect in April 2026 are designed to ensure that employees who are genuinely unwell receive the financial support they need Employers and employees alike need to be aware of these changes and understand their rights and obligations when it comes to SSP By staying informed and taking the necessary steps to comply with the new rules, both employers and employees can navigate the system effectively and ensure that those who need support receive it
So, as we approach April 2026, make sure you are up to date with the latest information on statutory sick pay and how it may impact you Whether you are an employer or an employee, understanding the changes to SSP will help you to navigate the system and access the support you need during times of illness.