Fiducia TogetherStatutory sick pay
The legal minimum paid to an employee who is off sick, and its limits.
Please note: This page explains what a term means. It is general information, not legal, financial, tax or investment advice, and it does not know anything about your business. Before you sign, file or commit to anything, check it with an accountant, a solicitor, or the official guidance we link to.
What it means
Statutory sick pay is payable to eligible employees who are off sick, for up to 28 weeks, at a weekly rate set by government.
Why it matters
It is a legal minimum rather than a good scheme — the rate is low and many employers offer contractual sick pay above it. Whether you do is a policy decision that belongs in the contract.
What it looks like in practice
Eligibility depends on average earnings and the length of absence. Employers keep records and cannot reclaim SSP in normal circumstances.
What to watch out for
Managing sickness absence without considering disability. Where an absence relates to a disability, absence triggers and capability processes may need adjusting — see reasonable adjustments.
Where to get proper advice
ACAS: free guidance, free templates and a free helpline. An employment solicitor for anything contested or senior.
Where to read more
Last reviewed 2026-08-28 by Fiducia Together · Next review due 2027-08-28
Please note: This page explains what a term means. It is general information, not legal, financial, tax or investment advice, and it does not know anything about your business. Before you sign, file or commit to anything, check it with an accountant, a solicitor, or the official guidance we link to.