As we head into April 2026, there are some important changes to statutory sick pay that both employers and employees need to be aware of Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is a government-mandated benefit that provides financial support to employees who are unable to work due to illness or injury In this article, we will cover the key aspects of SSP for April 2026 and what you need to know.
First and foremost, it is important to understand that SSP rates typically change annually In April 2026, the standard rate of SSP will increase to £97.85 per week, up from £96.35 in the previous year This means that eligible employees who are off work due to illness or injury will be entitled to receive this amount for up to 28 weeks To be eligible for SSP, employees must earn at least £120 per week and have been off work due to illness for at least four consecutive days.
Additionally, it is important to note that the rules around SSP eligibility have been updated for April 2026 Employees who are deemed to be “shielding” due to serious health conditions will now be entitled to SSP if they are unable to work from home This is a significant change that aims to provide additional support to individuals who are at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19.
Employers should also be aware that they are required to pay SSP to eligible employees from the fourth day of illness, known as the waiting period Previously, employers were able to reclaim some of the costs of SSP from the government for employees who were off work due to COVID-19 statutory sick pay april 2026. However, this provision has now expired, and employers will be responsible for paying SSP in full.
Furthermore, employers should ensure that they have clear policies in place for managing SSP and communicating with employees about their entitlements This includes having a robust absence management process to track and record sickness absences, as well as providing employees with information about how to claim SSP and what evidence they may need to provide.
In addition to these changes, employers should also be aware of their duty to make reasonable adjustments for employees who are off work due to illness or injury This could include providing alternative duties or adjusting work schedules to accommodate employees who are returning to work after a period of sickness absence.
Finally, it is important for employees to be aware of their rights and entitlements when it comes to SSP If you are off work due to illness or injury, you should notify your employer as soon as possible and provide any evidence of sickness that is required You should also keep in regular contact with your employer to keep them updated on your progress and expected return to work date.
Overall, the changes to statutory sick pay in April 2026 are designed to provide enhanced support to employees who are unable to work due to illness or injury By understanding your rights and responsibilities, both employers and employees can ensure that the process of claiming and paying SSP runs smoothly and fairly.
In conclusion, statutory sick pay is an important benefit that provides financial support to employees when they are unable to work due to illness or injury By understanding the changes to SSP for April 2026 and ensuring compliance with the updated rules, employers and employees can navigate the process more effectively If you have any questions about SSP or need further information, it is recommended to consult with a legal or HR professional.