Story perspectives

UK Launches Day-One Sick Pay, Boosts Paternity Rights

4/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

From April 7, 2026, statutory sick pay begins on day one of absence in the United Kingdom.
The earnings threshold for eligibility is removed.
Sick pay is capped at £123.25 weekly for up to 28 weeks.
New paternity rights allow fathers to take leave from day one of employment.
TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak said changes will aid low-paid workers, especially women, who have faced challenges accessing sick pay.

History

Historical Context

The UK's Social Security Act of 1974 established statutory sick pay, initially imposing waiting periods and income thresholds that limited access for low-paid workers. In 2026, reforms will eliminate these thresholds, allowing immediate sick pay, addressing historical inequities highlighted by TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak. These changes aim to enhance financial security for vulnerable workers, particularly women, who have faced challenges accessing sick pay.

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Story summary

From April 7, 2026, statutory sick pay begins on day one of absence in the United Kingdom.
The earnings threshold for eligibility is removed.
Sick pay is capped at £123.25 weekly for up to 28 weeks.
New paternity rights allow fathers to take leave from day one of employment.
TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak said changes will aid low-paid workers, especially women, who have faced challenges accessing sick pay.

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