Everything You Need To Know About Statutory Sick Pay
statutory sick pay, also known as SSP, is a payment made by employers to employees who are unable to work due to illness. This benefit is a legal requirement in the UK, and it helps to provide financial support to employees who are off work for a prolonged period of time due to sickness.
Eligibility for statutory sick pay
In order to be eligible for statutory sick pay, employees must meet certain criteria. To qualify for SSP, employees must have been off work due to illness for at least four consecutive days, including non-working days. They must also earn at least £118 per week before tax and have informed their employer of their sickness within the required time frame.
Employees must also provide their employer with evidence of their sickness, such as a doctor’s note, if they are off work for more than seven days. Employers may have their own specific requirements for proof of sickness, so it is important for employees to check their company’s policy on sick leave.
Amount of Statutory Sick Pay
The current rate of Statutory Sick Pay is £94.25 per week, and it is paid by employers for up to 28 weeks. This amount is subject to change each year, so it is essential to check the current rates on the government website. SSP is paid in the same way as regular wages, usually on the employee’s normal payday, and is subject to tax and National Insurance deductions.
Employees who are not eligible for SSP may be able to claim other benefits such as Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) or Universal Credit. It is important for employees to explore all available options for financial support if they are unable to work due to illness.
Length of Statutory Sick Pay
Statutory Sick Pay is paid for up to 28 weeks, which is equivalent to seven months. If an employee is still unable to work after the 28-week period, they may be eligible for long-term sickness benefits such as ESA. Employers are required by law to pay SSP for the full 28 weeks, even if the employee’s contract of employment ends during this time.
Support for Employers
Employers have a legal obligation to pay Statutory Sick Pay to eligible employees, but they can also seek support from the government if they have a high number of sick leave cases. The Percentage Threshold Scheme (PTS) allows employers to reclaim a percentage of their SSP costs if they exceed a certain threshold. This scheme can help to reduce the financial burden on businesses with a high number of sick employees.
Employers can also introduce measures to support their employees’ health and wellbeing, such as flexible working arrangements, employee assistance programs, and occupational health services. By promoting a healthy work environment, employers can help to reduce the number of sick leave cases and improve employee morale and productivity.
Statutory Sick Pay and Coronavirus
The outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic has brought increased attention to Statutory Sick Pay, as many employees have been required to self-isolate or shield due to the virus. The government has introduced temporary measures to support employees during this challenging time, including the ability to claim SSP from the first day of sickness absence and the introduction of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme.
Employees who are unable to work due to coronavirus-related issues, such as self-isolation or caring for a sick relative, may be entitled to Statutory Sick Pay. Employers are encouraged to support their employees during this time and to adhere to government guidelines on workplace safety and hygiene.
In conclusion, Statutory Sick Pay is a vital benefit that provides financial support to employees who are unable to work due to illness. By understanding the eligibility criteria, amount, and length of SSP, employees can ensure they receive the support they need during periods of sickness. Employers play a crucial role in supporting their employees’ health and wellbeing and complying with legal requirements regarding sick pay. Together, employers and employees can navigate the challenges of sickness absence and promote a healthy and productive work environment.