The Statutory Sick Pay (General) (Coronavirus Amendment) (No. 3) Regulations 2020 have come into force. The Regulations amend the Statutory Sick Pay (General) Regulations 1982 so that where, in accordance with public health guidance, a person is classed as extremely vulnerable and at very high risk of severe illness from coronavirus (COVID-19) and is advised to remain at home for at least 12 weeks (known as shielding), SSP is extended to that person who is deemed to be incapable of work because of this advice where they meet the SSP eligibility criteria. This is intended as a safety net for individuals, in cases where their employer chooses not to furlough them under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and does not have other suitable policies in place e.g. the ability to work from home, or the provision of special leave.
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