Union leaders are celebrating a significant victory for employees, with 9.6 million individuals gaining enhanced sick pay rights following an extensive campaign. New legislation taking effect today will grant 1.2 million low-wage workers access to statutory sick pay for the first time. Additionally, 8.4 million more employees will qualify for sick pay from the onset of their illness, and a considerable number will benefit from new paternity leave entitlements.
These changes mark the initial set of measures under the prominent Employment Rights Act. TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak expressed, “Today signifies a pivotal moment for workers. Following persistent advocacy by unions and employees, the first individual rights from the Employment Rights Act are being implemented – significantly impacting lives nationwide.”
The pivotal change ensures that employees will now receive Statutory Sick Pay from the first day of their sickness absence, eliminating the previous four-day waiting period, regardless of their salary level. This adjustment is anticipated to result in an additional £400 million annually in sick pay for workers, promoting a sense of security in allowing individuals to recuperate without the fear of financial loss.
Employment minister Dame Diana Johnson emphasized, “No individual should ever be forced to compromise between their well-being and earning a livelihood.” She added, “Historically, sick workers faced the dilemma of sacrificing a day’s pay or returning to work while unwell. Today’s transformative adjustments will aid in employee recovery while affording businesses the reassurance that their workforce can return healthier and more productive.”
