Senior associate Jeremy Coy has been quoted in People Management discussing the impact of upcoming statutory sick pay (SSP) changes on employers.
The article explains that from 6 April 2026, statutory sick pay will become payable from the first day of illness, replacing the current three‑day waiting period. It also removes the lower earnings limit, bringing lower‑paid workers into eligibility for the first time. The piece sets out what employers must do to prepare, including updating absence policies, ensuring payroll compliance, and understanding complex transitional arrangements for employees already on sick leave.
Jeremy comments on the scale of the change, emphasising that the reforms represent a “significant shift” for medium and large employers. He highlights the potential financial and administrative burden as well as the likelihood of increased sick‑day usage, particularly affecting sectors reliant on physical attendance such as retail and hospitality.
Aside from the financial and administrative burdens, these changes may also result in more employees taking sick days. This could be particularly challenging for employers in retail, hospitality and other sectors where physical attendance is necessary to carry out the work.
The full article is available from People Management Magazine here.
About Jeremy
Jeremy Coy is a senior associate in the employment law team. He has experience acting for large institutional employers as well as small and medium size businesses. He also advises employees and senior executives.
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