Statutory sick pay set for overhaul - industry reaction

Lower earnings threshold

Adam Saville
clock • 4 min read

Could be extended to two million low-paid workers under proposed new measures

The UK government has launched a consultation regarding proposed changes that could see statutory sick pay (SSP) extended to those earning below the existing threshold of 14 hours on the minimum wage. Currently employees need to earn at least £118 a week to receive SSP, but the suggested changes would mean that two million people on lower income could become eligible. The government is also offering more help for those returning to work after sick leave however it is not yet clear whether ‘gig' workers or those on freelance and short-term contracts will benefit from the plans. The Dep...

To continue reading this article...

Join COVER for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, key trend analysis and industry insights.
  • Stay on top of the latest developments around health and wellbeing, diversity and inclusion and the cost of living crisis.
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletter.
  • Members only access to monthly programme 'The COVER Review'
  • Be the first to hear about our CPD accredited events and awards programmes.

Join now

 

Already a Cover member?

Login

More on Regulation

The COVER Review: Regulatory updates, adviser reports and new product lines

The COVER Review: Regulatory updates, adviser reports and new product lines

Week commencing 23 February 2026

COVER
clock 27 February 2026 • 1 min read
FCA publishes regulatory priorities for insurance

FCA publishes regulatory priorities for insurance

86% of consumers have at least one general insurance or pure protection product

Cameron Roberts
clock 24 February 2026 • 2 min read
IPT receipts hit £7.7bn in January 2026

IPT receipts hit £7.7bn in January 2026

£872m collected last month

Jaskeet Briah
clock 20 February 2026 • 2 min read