New Statutory Sick Pay regulations have been brought into force today, amending legislative measures to 'persons deemed incapable of work' who are eligible to receive statutory sick pay.

This means self-isolation, for the purposes of preventing the spread of the coronavirus in accordance with public health guidance, is a valid reason to be deemed incapable of work and therefore eligible for Statutory Sick Pay.

The new regulations also state that the self-isolation must be read alongside guidance published by the relevant public health bodies. It is important that employers and employees remain aware of public health updates in relation to Coronavirus and stopping the spread of the virus throughout the ‘delay’ phase. Links to the guidance at the date of publication are here:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

https://www.nhsinform.scot/coronavirus

The regulations will cease to have an effect from 13 November 2020.

If you require legal advice in relation to COVID-19 and how it affects your organisation, please contact a member of MacRoberts' Employment team.