16th March 2020
It was announced in last week’s 2020 Budget that Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) rules are to be changed temporarily to help workers affected by the COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak.
The Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced that the Government is “extending Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) for all those who are advised to self-isolate and their carers – even if they haven’t yet presented with symptoms.”
It’s important to note that during this time those affected can obtain a sick note by contacting the NHS on 111, rather than by visiting their GP.
Additionally, instead of having to wait until their fourth day of absence to receive SSP, those affected will be eligible to receive it from day one.
Statutory Sick Pay reminder
This is an opportune time to remind yourself of the rules surrounding SSP. It’s £94.25 per week for up to 28 weeks and to qualify for SSP the person must be classified as an employee who has done some work for their employer. You are legally obliged to pay SSP, even if they are new to your company.
The eligibility criteria for SSP is as follows:
- They must be sick for at least four days in a row, including non-working days
- They have to earn at least an average of £118 per week
- They need to inform you that they’re sick
Don’t forget to apply the new SSP rules related to coronavirus to the criteria above.
