Self-certification period extended

Sickness self-certification period extended to assist vaccine rollout

As the race between the vaccines and the new Omicron variant continues, there has been an amendment to the Statutory Sick Pay Regulations by the UK Government which changes the period for which an employee can self certify their absence.

This change comes into effect from today, Friday 17^th December 2021 and has been made to allow GPs more time to focus on the vaccine rollout.

It is usually the case that employees can self-certify a period of sickness absence for 7 days – this has now been extended to 28 days. However, this extension is for a limited period only and will expire on 26 January 2022.

This will apply to employees whose absence commenced before 17 December 2021(but is not yet longer than seven days) or any absence that begins within this period. Employers should be aware that, although that this means they may not receive the usual medical certification for absences, this will not affect their continuing obligation to pay statutory sick pay. In addition.

Get in touch

Should you need further advice and guidance on the implications of this change, do not hesitate to get in touch with our employment team who are ready and willing to assist.