Workers can now take 28 days off sick without a note from their GP in a move which a legal expert says could catch out employers and their staff this winter.
The new temporary rules were introduced in December 2021 but Midlands law firm FBC Manby Bowdler says many companies are unaware of the changes.
Employment law expert Julia Fitzsimmons, Partner with FBC Manby Bowdler, is flagging up the regulations which could cause confusion among both workers and employers.
“We’re heading into the peak season for colds and flus and at the same time Omicron cases are also pushing up staff absences.
“The changes to self-certification for employees on sick leave were brought in at the end of last year to give GPs more time to work on the Covid booster vaccination rollout. Under the new guidelines, workers can now take 28 days off sick without a note from their doctor.”
Julia said that previously, an employee was required to give their employer a proof of sickness, such as a fit note from their GP, after 7 days off sick to be able to claim Statutory Sick Pay (SSP). Now, an employer can’t request proof of sickness any earlier than 28 days into the worker’s sick leave.
In addition, no date has been given yet for the reinstatement of the 7-day rule which makes things tricky for employers and their staff.
“The change to the fit note rules have been introduced as a temporary measure to ease the pressure on GPs as they focus on getting their patients vaccinated against Covid, but the...
Governor Makinde might be alone in his NLNG dividend disagreement with FG because he doesn't support President Tinubu re-election like other governors - Gadu Watch full interview: https://youtu.