Is the Statutory Sick Pay rate too low?

The CIPD urges major reform of Statutory Sick Pay, including a major rise in the rate and changes to widen eligibility. A study has found that 62% of employers agree that the SSP rate is too low and should be increased. The pandemic has further exposed how financially inadequate SSP is, with many people still working when ill or needing to self-isolate. The CIPD is calling for the Government to raise the level of SSP to be at least equivalent to someone earning the National Minimum Wage/National Living Wage.

Who is eligible for Statutory Sick Pay?

To qualify for Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) you must be classed as an employee and have done some work for your employer, earn an average of at least £120 per week, have been ill or self-isolating for at least 4 days in a row (including non-working days). You will not qualify if you have received the maximum amount of SSP (28 weeks), are getting Statutory Maternity Pay or are self-isolating after entering or returning to the UK and do not need to self-isolate for any other reason.

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