Union leaders are celebrating a significant day for employees as 9.6 million individuals are granted enhanced sick pay rights following a prolonged struggle. Today marks the implementation of new regulations where 1.2 million low-wage workers will now receive statutory sick pay, with an additional 8.4 million becoming eligible from the outset, and many others gaining new paternity leave entitlements.
These changes represent the initial set of actions from the prominent Employment Rights Act. TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak remarked, “Today is a pivotal day for workers. After extensive efforts by unions and employees, the first individual rights under the Employment Rights Act are taking effect – a transformative development nationwide.
“The provision of sick pay to all, commencing from the first day of illness, marks a significant advancement. Historically, many low-income workers, particularly women, have been deprived of sick pay benefits. Even those eligible for statutory sick pay had to endure a four-day waiting period before making a claim.”
Under the new regulations, employees will now receive Statutory Sick Pay from the onset of sickness absence, irrespective of their salary level, eliminating the previous four-day wait. This change is anticipated to result in an additional £400 million per year in sick pay for workers, ensuring they can recuperate without financial worries, as emphasized by the Government.
Employment minister Dame Diana Johnson stated, “No individual should ever be forced to decide between their health and earning an income. For too long, sick workers have faced the dilemma of sacrificing a day’s pay or returning to work while unwell.
“These groundbreaking adjustments will aid employees in their recovery process while providing businesses with the assurance that their workforce can return healthier and more productive.”
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