Sick pay boost for over 1m low-paid workers

More than a million low-paid workers are set to benefit from changes to sick pay rules.

Under the current system, employees earning less than £123 a week aren’t entitled to get any statutory sick pay.

But this is set to change next year, so people earning less than £123 a week will be entitled to 80% of their wages in sick pay.

The government believes this will make 1.3m people on the lowest salaries up to £100 a week better off and reduce their reliance on benefits.

Liz Kendall, the work and pensions secretary, said: “For too long, sick workers have had to decide between staying at home and losing a day’s pay or soldiering on at their own risk just to make ends meet.

“No one should ever have to choose between their health and earning a living, which is why we are making this landmark change.”

TUC calls for sick pay review

The announcement has been welcomed by the TUC, but the trade unions body wants the government to go further.

“We urge ministers in future to raise the replacement rate for the lowest earners beyond 80% and undertake a wider review of the statutory sick pay rate,” said secretary general Paul Nowak.

“This shouldn’t be the end of the story.”

What help is available if I’m on sick leave?

If you’re off work, check if you’re eligible for statutory sick pay.

Your employer may also offer other forms of sick pay - it’s best to check with them.

Statutory sick pay usually lasts for 28 weeks and is paid at a rate of £116.75 a week.

If you’re eligible for sick pay but haven’t been paid anything from your employer, make sure you ask them to.

And if your statutory sick pay has run out, find out what grants and benefits you might be eligible to receive.