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UK – Millions of low-paid workers could receive statutory sick pay (BBC News)

15 July 2019

Two million low-paid workers could receive statutory sick pay for the first time as part of reforms aimed at supporting people with health conditions in the workplace, reports BBC News. Currently, employees must earn at least the equivalent of 14 hours on the minimum wage to qualify. But the government is looking at whether to extend eligibility to those earning below this threshold. Workers need to earn at least £118 a week to receive statutory sick pay, although the threshold is reviewed every tax year. Health Secretary Matt Hancock commented, "We need to remove the barriers that stop people with disabilities or health conditions from reaching their full potential - these steps will help us achieve that." It is unclear if the plans would benefit "gig" workers on freelance or short-term contracts, but the Department for Work and Pensions said the consultation did not seek to "undermine the flexibility in the UK labour market".  The government is set to launch a consultation today.