12/02/2026
Statutory Sick Pay is changing from April 2026 and it affects every employer.
From 6 April 2026, SSP rules will change in some of the biggest reforms in years. More employees will qualify, payments will start sooner, and SSP will no longer be a simple flat-rate calculation.
Key changes include:
• SSP paid from day one of sickness (no waiting days)
• More employees eligible, including lower-paid and part-time staff
• SSP linked to pay. 80% of earnings (up to the weekly cap)
• Potential cost increases for employers
• Payroll and absence systems will need updating
These reforms are designed to improve support for employees but they also mean employers need to plan ahead.
Our latest article explains what's changing, what it means in practice, and how employers should prepare.
Read the full guide here: https://bmconnect.co.uk/statutory-sick-pay-changes-april-2026/
Early preparation = smoother compliance, better cost control, and fewer surprises in 2026.