UK Sick Pay: New Rules from April 6, 2026

0:00It's March 25. This is Lester News today, powered by AI. Big changes are coming to sick pay in the UK. Starting April 6, 2026, statutory sick pay becomes available to every eligible worker, regardless of how much they earn. It will kick in right from the first full day of illness, scrapping the old 3-day weight. The payment works out to 80% of your average weekly earnings, or a flat rate of 123 pounds 25 pence, whichever is lower. This shift helps low paid workers who used to miss out entirely because they fell below the earnings threshold. Millions of people stand to benefit, especially those in part time or casual jobs hit hard by illness. Removing the waiting days means faster financial support when you need it most, easing the pressure on families and the economy. For ongoing illnesses, rules get specific. If you've been off sick, continuously since before September 22, 2025, you won't qualify until you've returned to work for AT.

1:02Least 8 weeks, but recent cases or breaks in absence open the door from April 6. Current sick pay recipients switch to the new rate on that date, with protections for lower earners sticking to the flat amount during their spell. Employers and workers alike should check updated guidance as this rolls out to stay compliant.