Covid SSP Update February 2022
Staff could be entitled to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) if they cannot work because they’re self-isolating for any of the following reasons:
- they have coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms or have tested positive
- someone in their household has symptoms or has tested positive
- they are told to self-isolate by an NHS test and trace service
- they have been advised by their doctor to stay at home before going into hospital for surgery
They are entitled to be paid at least SSP for every day they’re off work. This is different to the usual rules for SSP where the first 3 days are unpaid.
In England, from 24 March 2022 staff will no longer be entitled to SSP for self-isolation unless they are not well. There are currently no changes for Scotland and Wales.
Employers might offer more than SSP – ‘contractual’ sick pay. Check your employment contract or workplace’s policy to see if your organisation pays more than SSP.
Pay for self-isolating or quarantine after travel
Employees or workers are not entitled to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) if they’re in self-isolation or quarantine after travel abroad and they cannot work from home. But an employer can choose to pay them sick pay – at the same rate as SSP or a higher rate – if they want to.
Support for employers
Some employers can claim back up to 2 weeks’ Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) they’ve paid to anyone because of COVID-19. This applies to employees who were off work on or after 21 December 2021.
In England, this is ending on 17 March 2022. Employers must submit or amend any claims by 24 March 2022. There are currently no changes for Scotland and Wales.
Find out more about claiming back SSP due to COVID-19 on GOV.UK
