•Statutory sick pay (SSP) is paid by employers to certain employees who are unfit for work.

•SSP can be paid for up to 28 weeks.

•SSP is a non-means-tested benefit.

•Your entitlement to SSP is not based on your national insurance contribution record, but your usual earnings must be above a certain amount to qualify.

•If you qualify, SSP is the minimum amount your employer should pay while you are sick. You may also be entitled to occupational sick pay under your contract.

•If you disagree with your employer’s decision on your entitlement to SSP, or if your employer has failed to make a decision, you can challenge this (see Chapter 60).