Blog

Contributor: Kate Palmer HR Advice and Consultancy Director – Peninsula |

Released: October 14, 2021

Kate Palmer HR Advice and Consultancy Director – Peninsula

October 14, 2021

COVID-19’s statutory sick pay rebate program has officially ended. The program, originally launched in May 2020, has helped financially support employers with employees who have tested positive or have been forced to isolate themselves.

The program enabled small and medium-sized employers to claim back statutory sick pay (SSP) for up to 2 weeks.

Before May 2020, SSP would be paid in full by the employer – and from October 1, 2021, the employers should pay the costs again.

Kate Palmer is HR Advice and Consultancy Director for Peninsula. She said, “The end of the program will inevitably put pressure on many companies. It may be tempting to relax the rules surrounding COVID-related sick leave, especially now that more and more employees are being vaccinated.

“However, now is not the time to be complacent about the risks of COVID. They remain in place, as does the employer’s still criminal obligation not to leave the house to work – with the risk of high fines. “

“Realistically, there will be no change in when to be off work due to COVID, and therefore no advice from an employer should change. It will cost an employer, there is no doubt about it, but the risk of COVID spreading through a workplace comes at a higher cost.

“Talking to an expert is the best way to make sure your company is compliant and provides a safe work environment for employees.”