As we move into April 2026, there are a number of changes to statutory sick pay (SSP) that both employers and employees need to be aware of SSP is paid by employers to employees who are unable to work due to illness or injury It is a legal requirement for employers to pay SSP to employees who meet certain criteria, and the amount paid is set by the government.
In April 2026, there are a number of updates to SSP that both employees and employers should be aware of These changes aim to provide greater support to individuals who are unable to work due to illness or injury, while also ensuring that employers are able to manage the costs associated with providing SSP.
One of the key changes to SSP in April 2026 is an increase in the weekly rate of SSP From April 2026, the weekly rate of SSP will increase to £103.85 This means that employees who are unable to work due to illness or injury will receive a higher level of financial support while they are off work This increase in the weekly rate of SSP aims to help individuals cover their living expenses while they are unable to work.
In addition to the increase in the weekly rate of SSP, there are also changes to the eligibility criteria for SSP in April 2026 From April 2026, employees will be eligible for SSP from the first day that they are off work due to illness or injury This means that employees will not have to wait for a certain period of time before they can start receiving SSP This change aims to provide greater financial support to individuals who are unable to work due to illness or injury.
Another important change to SSP in April 2026 is the introduction of a new provision for employees who are off work due to long-term illness or injury statutory sick pay april 2026. From April 2026, employees who are off work due to long-term illness or injury will be able to claim SSP for up to 28 weeks This means that individuals who are unable to work for an extended period of time will continue to receive financial support from their employer.
Employers also have responsibilities when it comes to SSP, and there are changes that they need to be aware of in April 2026 Employers are required to pay SSP to employees who meet the eligibility criteria, and they must keep accurate records of SSP payments From April 2026, employers will need to ensure that they are paying the correct amount of SSP to employees and that they are complying with the updated eligibility criteria.
Employers also have a duty to provide a safe and healthy working environment for their employees This includes taking steps to prevent illness and injury in the workplace, as well as supporting employees who are unable to work due to illness or injury Employers should have policies and procedures in place for managing sickness absence, including how SSP will be paid to employees.
Overall, the changes to SSP in April 2026 aim to provide greater support to individuals who are unable to work due to illness or injury, while also ensuring that employers are able to manage the costs associated with providing SSP By being aware of these changes and understanding their responsibilities, both employees and employers can navigate the world of statutory sick pay with confidence.
In conclusion, statutory sick pay is an important form of financial support for individuals who are unable to work due to illness or injury The changes to SSP in April 2026 aim to provide greater support to individuals while also ensuring that employers are able to manage the costs associated with providing SSP By being aware of these changes and understanding their responsibilities, both employees and employers can navigate the world of statutory sick pay with confidence.