This week sees what the Government is calling an “upgrade to the world of work in the 21st century,” as landmark employment rights reforms come into force.
From this week, employees will receive Statutory Sick Pay from their first day of sickness absence, rather than having to wait until the fourth day, regardless of how much they’re getting paid.
This move will benefit millions of people across the United Kingdom, who will get around £400m a year extra in sick pay, the Government said. The reforms are expected to help reduce the duration of sickness absences, boost productivity, and limit the spread of illnesses.
In addition, 32,000 new fathers and partners have also gained the right to paternity leave from the first day in a new job – rather than having to wait six months to be eligible.
New day one rights to unpaid parental leave have also begun, which will benefit 1.5m working parents across the UK who will no longer have to wait a year before qualifying.
Business secretary, Peter Kyle (left), said: “Day one rights mean exactly that - rights that are there for you from the moment you start a job, and from the moment you get sick.
“Whether you’re a low-paid employee who’s been forced to work while unwell, or a new parent who wants to be there for their family, these changes are for you. We’re delivering the most significant upgrade to workers’ rights in a generation”
From today, parents will also be granted a new right to time off following the death of a child’s mother or primary adopter, through new Bereaved Partner’s Paternity Leave – hard fought for by campaigners including Aaron Horsey and the charity Gingerbread.
Minister for employment, Dame Diana Johnson, added: “No one should ever have to choose between their health and earning a living. For too long, sick employees have had to make the impossible decision between losing out on a day’s pay or returning to work while ill.
“Today’s landmark changes will support employees to recover while providing businesses with the peace of mind that their workforce can return to work healthier and more productive.”
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