In respect of Statutory Sick Pay (‘SSP‘), the ERA 2025 has:
- Made SSP available from day one of absence, removing the three “waiting days” before it becomes payable (as is currently the case);
- Removed the lower earnings limit on eligibility (£129 per week from 6 April 2026); and
- Set the rate of SSP payable to employees at the lower of: (i) 80% of the average weekly earnings; and (ii) the current weekly rate of SSP (£123.25 from 6 April 2026).
These changes mean that low earners are entitled to receive 80% of average weekly pay, where under the previous law they were not entitled to SSP, and that SSP will be available for all employees from day one of sickness absence.
Timing and developments
Included in the ERA 2025.
This measure took effect on 6 April 2026.