The government discreetly changed the rules regarding fit notes and self-certification back in December. This article highlights this temporary change in guidance aimed at supporting GPs during the ongoing pandemic. For Statutory Sick Pay (SSP), where employees go off sick on or after 10 December 2021, employers can only ask employees for proof of sickness (such as a fit note) after 28 days of sickness (including non-working days). Proof of sickness cannot be requested earlier than 28 days.

The Government is putting in place increases to the National Living and National Minimum Wages that were recommended by the Low Pay Commission, an independent advisory board. As of 1st April 2022 the National Living Wage will see its largest increase (6.6%) to £9.50 per hour. At the same time, the National Minimum Wage (NMW) rates will be increased as follows…