Managing employees/workers
From 6 April 2026, the Employment Rights Act 2025 removes the three-day waiting period for eligibility for SSP. Employers no longer need to consider whether waiting days apply where the employee has intermittent pregnancy-related absence.
From 6 April 2026, the Employment Rights Act 2025 removes the three-day waiting period and minimum earnings requirement for eligibility for statutory sick pay. This guide has been updated to reflect the new rules.
We highlight that the GOV.UK page with the SSP1 form was updated on 6 April 2026 with a second version of the form that reflects changes to the rules on statutory sick pay eligibility in effect from that date. This prescribed form explains to a sick employee ineligible for statutory sick pay why they are not eligible and it is important that employers use the right version.
The statutory maternity pay rate increased on 5 April 2026. The example calculations in this guide have been updated with the new rate.
The statutory maternity pay rate increased on 5 April 2026. The examples in this guide on payment for keeping-in-touch days have been updated with the new rate.
The statutory adoption pay rate increased on 5 April 2026. The examples in this guide on payment for keeping-in-touch days have been updated with the new rate.
The statutory maternity pay rate increased on 5 April 2026. The example calculations in this guide have been updated with the new rate.
The maximum guarantee payment has increased to £41, effective from 6 April 2026. HR teams should update payroll calculations and policy documentation to ensure compliance with the new maximum rate.
Updated to reflect that the day-one right to ordinary parental leave came into force on 6 April 2026, under the Employment Rights Act 2025. HR teams should update their policies and processes to reflect this expanded entitlement.
Updated to reflect that, pursuant to the Employment Rights Act 2025 and with effect from 6 April 2026, sexual harassment is included in the list of disclosures qualifying for whistleblowing protection. Use our Whistleblowing training guide to train your line managers on their responsibilities and obligations.
HR and legal information and guidance relating to managing employees/workers.