Employers and workers both cite SSP changes as most important

The latest polling of business owners and workers in the UK shows that they both consider statutory sick pay (SSP) changes to be the most significant part of the Employment Rights Act.

This poll was carried out by workplace conciliation service Acas. The results show that employers and employees are united in regarding the SSP changes as highly significant. Those changes will see an employee become entitled to SSP as soon as they become sick, whereas currently it is from day four.

According to the Acas poll, 43% of workers think it will have the greatest effect of all the Employment Rights Act changes. Meanwhile, among employees, this figure is 36%.

It is certainly set to increase costs for businesses, but it will also require administrative changes. HR teams will need to revise policies around workplace benefits and make sure their companies are complying with the new rules.

Given the scale of the administration that will be involved, companies will struggle to manage the change without the help of HR. Smaller firms that cannot afford their own teams may want to look at using outsourced HR services in Bedfordshire.

The chief executive of Acas is Niall Mackenzie. He spoke to Personnel Today about the findings of the poll:

“Acas will play a crucial role working with employers, workers and their representatives on the implementation of the Employment Rights Act and updating its advice and training.”

The changes to SSP are due to come into force on 6th April, while others will be introduced on a staggered basis.