Significant changes to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) and Family Leave entitlements that will take effect on 6^th April 2026 under the Employment Rights Act 2025.

Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) – What’s Changing?

• SSP will become payable from the first day of sickness absence, removing the current three‑day waiting period.
• The Lower Earnings Limit will be removed, meaning all employees—regardless of earnings—will qualify for SSP.
• SSP will be paid at 80% of average weekly earnings or the statutory flat rate (set to be £123.25 from April 2026), whichever is lower.

Family Leave – Key Reforms 

Paternity Leave

• Paternity leave becomes a day‑one right, with no requirement for 26 weeks’ service.
• Employees will no longer be prevented from taking paternity leave after Shared Parental Leave.

 Unpaid Parental Leave

• Unpaid parental leave will also become a day‑one entitlement, removing the previous one‑year qualifying period.

Bereaved Partner’s Paternity Leave

• A new entitlement of up to 52 weeks of leave will be available where the child’s mother or primary adopter dies within the first year following birth or placement.

Milne Safety offers HR Consultancy service to support your company through the these government changes and any Human Resource issues and requirements impacting your business. For more information email rachael@milnesafety.co.uk