Self-isolation and Statutory Sick Pay
The Self-isolation period has been reduced from 14 to ten days for anyone with Covid-19 symptoms, who has tested positive or lives in a household with someone who has tested positive.
The Statutory Sick Pay (General) (Coronavirus Amendment) (No. 7) Regulations 2020 which came into force on 24 December 2020 states that anyone who is symptomatic, tests positives as well as their household contacts is deemed incapable of work and therefore if eligible for SSP is entitled to claim it whilst they self-isolate for 11 days (the day the symptoms start or the test is taken is day one, plus ten further days).
Employers should also note their responsibilities to their employees if contact is made through the NHS Track and Trace service.
Employers should make sure that they have a plan in place and that they have made practical steps to support any self-isolation requests.
It is a good idea to review policies and ensure employees know that they must inform their employer immediately if contacted by the NHS, and to keep their employer up-to-date, including reviewing business continuity and contingency plans to ensure adequate cover is in place particularly if critical roles are affected by short-notice and unexpected absences.
It is also worth ensuring that contact details are up to date and reminding employees of their obligations to inform the employer or failure to self-isolate can amount to misconduct.
Posted on 01/13/2021 by Ortolan
