The Government’s “Living with COVID-19” Plan: Returning to Pre-Pandemic Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) Rules

In February 2022, the Government announced its “Living with COVID-19” plan.  The plan sets out the pathway for the removal of the remaining restrictions and the financial packages put in place to support the requirement to self-isolate.

The SSP Rebate Scheme, which allowed employers to reclaim SSP if an employee was off work because they had COVID-19 or were self-isolating, closed on 17 March 2022.

From 24 March 2022, SSP will no longer be available from day one if employees are unable to work because they have COVID-19 or are self-isolating.  Instead, the pre-pandemic SSP arrangements will return, meaning that SSP will only be payable from the fourth day of sickness, and not the first.

Employers may decide to ‘top-up’ SSP to encourage self-isolation, but they will not be entitled to reimbursement under the Rebate Scheme if they decide to do so.

Should you have any queries on what the rules are or, paying statutory sick pay, please contact Stephanie Cooper.