UK Sick Pay Reform: Will it Help Workers or Break Small Businesses?

Statutory Sick Pay Changes in the UK: A Boon for Workers or a Burden for Businesses? The UK is considering significant changes to its statutory sick pay (SSP) system. The House of Lords has debated a proposal to provide SSP from the first day of illness, eliminating the current three-day waiting period. While this move would benefit many employees, it raises concerns about the financial burden on employers, particularly small businesses. "This move could shift a significant financial burden onto employers, and particularly small businesses," explains HR expert Judith Fiddler in a recent video. She emphasizes the lack of confirmed government funding to support this change. This lack of support leaves many small businesses wondering how they will cover the increased costs. The current system already excludes many low-wage earners who don't meet the earning threshold for SSP. Under the proposed reform, this issue would be exacerbated, potentially leaving 1.3 million employees unprotected. While the proposed reform aims to improve fairness and provide better protection for those who fall ill, the lack of financial support for businesses casts a shadow over its potential effectiveness. The question remains: will this reform ultimately lead to more job losses and higher costs for employers, or will it truly improve the lives of workers?