Changes to eligibility for statutory sick pay

Implementation date: Not expected before 2026

The Employment Rights Bill includes provisions to make statutory sick pay (SSP) available to all workers. The Bill removes:

• the requirement to earn at least the lower earnings limit; and
• the three-day waiting period for workers to be entitled to SSP.

On 21 October 2024, the Government launched a consultation on Making Work Pay: Strengthening Statutory Sick Pay. The consultation seeks views on the percentage replacement rate for those earning below the current rate of SSP. The consultation closes on 4 December 2024.