Overview
- The Department for Work and Pensions told MPs that statutory sick pay now starts on day one and no longer has a lower earnings limit.
- The change brings cover to as many as 1.3 million more people, including many in low-paid, part-time, or multiple jobs.
- Ministers said removing the three-day wait should cut the pressure on people to work while ill.
- Acas said it will update guidance and training to help employers and staff follow the new rules.
- Other Employment Rights Act measures also began this month, with more due in 2027, such as day-one parental leave, stronger whistleblowing rules, higher penalties for flawed redundancies, simpler union recognition, and new holiday record duties.