The Changes To Statutory Sick Pay In April 2026: What You Need To Know

As of April 2026, there have been significant changes to statutory sick pay in the UK These changes aim to improve support for workers who are unwell and unable to work due to illness or injury Statutory sick pay (SSP) is a payment provided by employers to employees who are unable to work due to illness, injury, or disability It is a legal requirement for employers to provide SSP to eligible employees, and the amount paid is set by the government.

Under the new regulations, SSP rates have increased to better reflect the cost of living and provide more support to workers who are off sick This means that from April 2026, the weekly rate of SSP has been raised to £110, up from the previous rate of £95 This increase is designed to ensure that workers are not financially disadvantaged when they are unable to work due to ill health.

In addition to the increase in the weekly rate of SSP, there have also been changes to the eligibility criteria for SSP Previously, employees had to earn at least £120 per week to qualify for SSP However, under the new regulations, this threshold has been removed This means that all employees who are off sick and meet the other eligibility criteria will now be entitled to receive SSP, regardless of their earnings.

Another significant change to SSP in April 2026 is the introduction of a new right to bereavement leave Under this new provision, employees who have lost a close family member will be entitled to take up to two weeks of paid leave This leave will be paid at the same rate as SSP, providing additional support to workers during difficult times.

The changes to SSP in April 2026 also include new provisions for self-employed workers Previously, self-employed individuals were not entitled to SSP, meaning that they could be left without any income if they were unable to work due to illness statutory sick pay april 2026. However, under the new regulations, self-employed workers will now be able to claim SSP if they meet the eligibility criteria This will provide vital support to self-employed individuals who are off sick and unable to work.

Employers will also see changes to their obligations under the new SSP regulations From April 2026, employers will be required to provide SSP to eligible employees from the first day of their absence, rather than the previous seven-day waiting period This change is intended to ensure that workers receive support from the outset of their illness and do not face financial hardship while they are off sick.

It is important for both employers and employees to be aware of these changes to SSP in April 2026 Employers must ensure that they understand their obligations under the new regulations and provide the correct level of support to their employees who are off sick Employees should also be aware of their rights to SSP and how to make a claim if they need to take time off work due to illness.

Overall, the changes to statutory sick pay in April 2026 represent a positive step forward in providing support to workers who are unwell and unable to work The increase in SSP rates, the removal of the earnings threshold, and the introduction of bereavement leave all aim to ensure that employees are adequately supported during periods of ill health By understanding these changes and how they affect both employers and employees, we can work together to create a fairer and more inclusive workplace for all.

In conclusion, the changes to statutory sick pay in April 2026 represent a positive development in providing support to workers who are off sick The increase in SSP rates, the removal of the earnings threshold, and the introduction of bereavement leave all aim to improve the level of support available to employees during periods of ill health By understanding these changes and ensuring compliance with the new regulations, employers and employees can work together to create a healthier and more supportive working environment for all.