The government has announced changes to the current Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) entitlement related to Covid 19 for businesses.
The latest update to the scheme now means employers can now request a ‘shielding note’ or letter from a GP or health authority advising an employee to shield because they’re at high risk of severe illness from coronavirus.
The advice from the government relating to coronavirus SSP is now:
You must pay an employee SSP if they’re self-isolating and off work for at least 4 days and if any of the following apply –
- They or someone they live with has coronavirus symptoms or has tested positive for coronavirus
- They’ve been notified by the NHS or pubic health authorities that they’ve been in contact with someone with coronavirus
- Someone in their ‘support bubble’ (or ‘extended household’ if they live in Scotland or Wales) has symptoms or has tested positive for coronavirus
- They’ve been advised by a doctor or healthcare professional to self-isolate before going into hospital for surgery
Businesses must also pay an employee SSP if both of the following apply –
- They live or work in an area with local restrictions in place, including advice to ‘shield’ (take extra precautions to minimise contact with others)
- They’ve been advised to shield because they’re at very high risk of severe illness from coronavirus
To see more information and eligibility criteria, please visit the Gov.UK website.
Further Covid 19 support