Poll shows companies worried about changes to Statutory Sick Pay

A new poll of UK business owners shows that the majority of them are worried about the forthcoming changes to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP), but that many are still failing to prepare.

This poll was conducted by the HR Dept and more than 600 business owners took part in it. According to the results, 75% of them have serious worries about the cost of the SSP changes – which amounts to three quarters. Under the terms of the Employment Rights Bill, workers will be entitled to claim SSP from their very first day on the job.

The change will become law on 6th April next year, and 62% of business owners believe that it will be financially damaging for their companies. Another 13% told the survey that they expect the impact to be extremely damaging.

What is a more alarming finding though is that many are not making the necessary preparations. In total, 46% stated that they have done nothing to get ready.

HR is crucial to that process, as it can implement policies and strategies for reducing sickness absence. Examples include improving work-life balance and building a positive company culture, which HR services in Northampton and beyond can help with.

Speaking to HR News, Michaela Gartside from the HR Dept said:

“For the 54% of business who are prepared, the impact of the new rules will be marginal because they have already invested in fair systems and robust HR practices, which naturally curb unnecessary sickness rates.”

Gartside added that the change would force other companies to do this.