COVID: Statutory sick pay and employment support allowance rules to change
The UK government has updated the statutory sick pay and employment support allowance rules, which comes into effect tomorrow, 24 March. Find out what is it and how will it affect you.
UK Government changes the rule of Statutory sick pay (SSP) and employment support allowance (ESA) startingtomorrow, 24th March. This is part of the government's 'Living with COVID' plan.
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New statutory sick pay (SSP) rules
As outlined on the official government website, if you're currently unable to effectively work because you are unwell, the statutory sick pay will pay you a minimum of £96.35 each week. If you earn at least £120 per week, it can be reimbursed for up to 28 weeks.
However, from tomorrow, you will only be able to receive the SSP compensation on day four of your absence, which is held as the first 'qualifying' day.
More under this adMore under this adNew employment support allowance (ESP) rules
The employment support allowance is for persons who have a medical condition or impairment that limits their capacity to work.
ESA recipients might get up to £74.70 each week, depending on their circumstances. In addition, instead of the ESA being accessible on Day 1 of being absent from work, it will now be available on Day 8.
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New rules being challenged
.@MartinSLewis challenges @sajidjavid over the govt's decision to stop the £500 payment for people on low income and statutory sick pay for those self-isolating due to Covid.
— Good Morning Britain (@GMB) March 21, 2022
He asks the Health Sec to give 'direct advice' for what people who have Covid & need to work should do. pic.twitter.com/qvCJoMwiNP
The government's new decision about the changes in the SSP and ESA regulations are being challenged by the masses. The English journalist, Martin Lewis says that people with COVID should seek 'direct advice' from the Health secretary, Sajid Javid, on his recent interview on Good Morning Britain.
More under this adMore under this adTomorrow also marks the first day of living without any restrictions. As the UK PM Boris Johnson says, it's now a 'personal responsibility.'