MILLIONS OF WORKERS GET NEW ACCESS TO SICK PAY AND PARENTAL LEAVE – Landmark employment rights reforms kick into force 

The world of work has been upgraded for the 21st century, as landmark UK employment rights reforms kick into force.  

Beginning on the 6th of April, 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 will benefit millions of people across the United Kingdom, who will get around 400 million a year extra in sick pay.   

By ensuring people can rest and recover without fear of losing income, the reforms are expected to help reduce the duration of sickness absences, boost productivity, and limit the spread of illnesses.

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 1.5 million working parents across the UK who will no longer have to wait a year before qualifying.