Upcoming changes to Statutory Sick Pay and parental leave

From 6 April 2026, the government is introducing several important updates to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) and parental leave. These changes are designed to make support more accessible and fairer for employees – particularly those in lower paid or newly started roles.

Below is a simple overview of what’s changing and what it means for you.

Key changes to SSP

1. No minimum earnings requirement

Right now, employees must earn at least £125 per week to qualify for SSP.

From 6 April 2026, this requirement will be removed.

✅ All employees will be eligible for SSP, regardless of how much they earn.

2. A new way of calculating SSP

SSP is currently paid at a flat rate of £123.25 per week.

Under the new rules, employers will pay the lower of:
•    80% of your average weekly earnings, or
•    £123.25

Average weekly earnings will be worked out based on your income in the eight weeks before you become sick.

3. SSP payable from day one

At present, the first three days of sick leave are unpaid.

From April 2026, SSP will be paid from your first qualifying day of absence.

✅ Sick employees will no longer lose pay during the initial waiting period.

What if I’m already off sick when the rules change?

The Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed that anyone receiving SSP before 6 April 2026 will not see a drop in what they’re paid.

You will continue receiving £123.25 per week until:
•    you return to work,
•    your 28 week SSP entitlement ends, or
•    your employment contract ends.

Updates to paternity and parental leave

Changes are also being introduced to help parents take time off when they need it most.

1. Paternity leave becomes a 'day one right'

Currently, an employee must have worked for their employer for 26 weeks before they can take paternity leave.

From 6 April 2026, this waiting period is removed.

✅ New dads and partners will be able to give notice of paternity leave from their first day in a new job.

2. Ordinary parental leave will also be a day one right

Ordinary (unpaid) parental leave currently requires one year of service.

From April 2026:

✅ Employees will be eligible from day one of employment.

3. More flexibility with shared parental leave

The restriction on taking paternity leave after shared parental leave is being removed, giving families more choice in how they structure their time off.

What this means for serving and former RAF personnel and families

These changes aim to make financial support and family related leave more accessible – particularly for those in new roles or with fluctuating earnings. Whether you’re serving, transitioning to civilian employment, or supporting a family member, it’s important to understand how these updates may benefit you.

If you have concerns about how sickness or parental leave might affect your income or wellbeing, call us on 0300 102 1919.