Understanding Statutory Sick Pay

Not being paid correctly while off sick can quickly cause financial stress — especially when your employer gives unclear information, stops payments unexpectedly or says you do not qualify.

This practical 17-page action toolkit explains Statutory Sick Pay in plain English and helps you check whether your employer has handled your sick pay correctly.

Inside the toolkit:

✓ Who qualifies for Statutory Sick Pay

✓ When SSP should start and how long it can be paid

✓ Waiting days and linked periods of sickness

✓ What happens when your earnings vary

✓ Fit notes and sickness evidence

✓ What your employer should tell you if SSP is refused or stopped

✓ How to challenge an incorrect SSP decision

✓ Practical evidence and payment-checking tools

✓ Template letters for contacting your employer

✓ Guidance on escalating the issue when it is not resolved

This toolkit is designed to help you understand the rules, organise your evidence and raise the problem clearly and professionally.