The Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme (“the Scheme”) is due to close for Covid-19 related absences from 17th March 2022 and there will be a window until 24th March 2022 to submit any final claims or to amend claims already submitted.
Why was the Scheme introduced?
The Scheme was originally introduced in the UK shortly after the pandemic to enable certain small to medium sized businesses to claim up to 2 weeks statutory sick pay from HMRC, provided that it met certain criteria.
Why is the Scheme closing?
The Scheme is closing in line with the announcement of the Living with Covid Plan which marks the end of restrictions including the legal requirement to self-isolate.
What will happen if an employee is absent after the closure date?
Following the closure of the Scheme, the rules relating to statutory sick pay will revert back to what they were previously. Employers will pay statutory sick pay from the fourth qualifying day their employee is absent from work for any sickness related absence. Some employees may have the benefit of more enhanced payments during absence, for example, a contract of employment which states that they will receive full pay for a certain amount of time.
If you would like to discuss any of the issues in this blog, please contact us.
