As we approach April 2026, there are some significant changes coming to statutory sick pay (SSP) that both employees and employers need to be aware of The government has announced updates to the SSP regulations that will impact how sick pay is calculated and distributed In this article, we will explore the key changes to SSP in April 2026 and what they mean for both employers and employees.
One of the most notable changes to SSP in April 2026 is the increase in the weekly rate of SSP Currently, employees who are off sick for four or more consecutive days are entitled to £96.35 per week in SSP However, from April 2026, this rate will rise to £100 per week This increase aims to provide greater financial support to employees who are unable to work due to illness or injury.
Another significant change coming in April 2026 is the extension of SSP to cover the first three days of sickness absence Previously, SSP would only kick in after an employee had been off sick for four or more days in a row However, from April 2026, employees will be entitled to SSP from the first day of their sickness absence This change aims to provide more immediate support to employees who are unwell and unable to work.
In addition to these changes, there will also be new requirements for employers to provide evidence of sickness absence Currently, employees are not required to provide a doctor’s note for the first seven days of sickness absence However, from April 2026, employees will need to provide a fit note from a doctor or other medical professional for any period of sickness absence lasting longer than three days This change aims to ensure that employees are genuinely unwell and in need of SSP.
Employers will also need to be aware of changes to how SSP is calculated for employees with irregular working patterns statutory sick pay april 2026. Currently, SSP is calculated based on an employee’s average weekly earnings over the previous eight weeks However, from April 2026, this calculation period will be extended to 12 weeks This change aims to provide a more accurate reflection of an employee’s earnings and ensure that they receive the correct amount of SSP.
It is essential for both employers and employees to familiarize themselves with these changes to SSP in April 2026 Employers will need to update their HR policies and procedures to reflect the new regulations, while employees should be aware of their entitlements when it comes to sick pay.
Employees who are off work due to illness or injury should ensure they provide the necessary evidence to their employer to receive SSP This may include a fit note from a doctor or other medical professional, depending on the length of their sickness absence By following the correct procedures, employees can ensure they receive the financial support they are entitled to during periods of illness.
Employers should also ensure they have robust systems in place to manage SSP effectively This includes keeping accurate records of sickness absence, calculating SSP correctly, and communicating with employees about their entitlements By staying on top of these changes and complying with the updated regulations, employers can avoid potential disputes or legal issues related to SSP.
Overall, the changes to SSP in April 2026 aim to provide greater support to employees who are off work due to illness or injury By increasing the weekly rate of SSP, extending coverage to the first three days of sickness absence, and requiring evidence of sickness absence, the government hopes to ensure that employees receive the financial support they need when they are unable to work Employers and employees alike should take the time to understand these changes and ensure they are compliant with the updated regulations.