UK Recruitment Glossary
Statutory Sick Pay
In recruiter context
Eligible from day 4 of illness (the first 3 days are 'waiting days' and unpaid unless your contract is more generous). To qualify you must earn above the Lower Earnings Limit (£123/week) and be classed as an employee, not self-employed. Many employers offer enhanced sick pay schemes — often full pay for 4-12 weeks, then half pay, then SSP. Check your contract before assuming. SSP isn't enough to live on and isn't designed to be — for serious illness, you may need to look into Universal Credit, ESA, or income protection insurance if you have it. Reform is ongoing — expect the rate and waiting days to change.
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