Understanding sickness absence and long-term sick pay can be a complex issue for many employees. It’s crucial to know your rights and responsibilities, as well as the policies and procedures of your employer. This article aims to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about sickness absence and provide a comprehensive guide to long-term sick pay, including what happens after 28 weeks of absence. We’ll also delve into the concept of ‘period absence’ and how it impacts your sick pay.
Understanding Sickness Absence
Sickness absence refers to the time an employee takes off work due to illness. It’s essential to understand the policies surrounding sickness absence, as it can impact your pay and job security. Here are some common questions employees often have about sickness absence:
What is the procedure for reporting sickness absence?
Each company has its own procedure for reporting sickness absence. Generally, you should inform your employer as soon as possible if you’re unable to work due to illness. This could be via phone, email, or through a designated system your employer uses.
Can my employer dismiss me for being off sick?
Employers should be reasonable when dealing with sickness absence. If you’re off sick frequently or for a long period, your employer should usually look at any ways they can support you, rather than dismiss you. However, if your absences become unmanageable, dismissal might be considered as a last resort.
What is ‘period absence’?
‘Period absence’ refers to the total amount of time an employee is absent from work due to sickness within a specific period. This could be calculated weekly, monthly, or annually, depending on the company’s policy.
Understanding Long-Term Sick Pay
Long-term sick pay is a provision that ensures employees continue to receive a portion of their salary when they’re unable to work due to a long-term illness. Here are some common questions employees often have about long-term sick pay:
What is long-term sick pay?
Long-term sick pay is a type of employee benefit that provides a portion of an employee’s regular income when they’re unable to work due to a long-term illness. The amount you receive and how long you receive it for can vary depending on your employer’s policy and the terms of your employment contract.
How does long-term sick pay work?
Typically, long-term sick pay kicks in after you’ve been off work for a certain period, often after your short-term sick pay (if any) has run out. The amount you receive is usually a percentage of your regular income, and it’s typically paid for a specified period or until you’re able to return to work.
What happens to my long-term sick pay after 28 weeks?
After 28 weeks of sickness absence, you may no longer be eligible for Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) from your employer. At this point, you may be able to apply for Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) from the government. The amount you receive will depend on your individual circumstances, including your income and savings.
Key Points to Remember
- Always inform your employer as soon as possible if you’re unable to work due to illness.
- Understand your employer’s policies on sickness absence and long-term sick pay.
- Long-term sick pay usually kicks in after a certain period and is typically a percentage of your regular income.
- After 28 weeks of sickness absence, you may be able to apply for ESA from the government.
In conclusion, understanding sickness absence and long-term sick pay is crucial for all employees. It’s important to familiarize yourself with your employer’s policies and know your rights. If you’re unsure about anything, don’t hesitate to ask your HR department or seek advice from a legal professional.
