IKEA will now be paying statutory sick pay only for unvaccinated staff who are absent from work due to self-isolation (Ikea cuts sick pay for unvaccinated staff forced to self-isolate - BBC News). It joins a number of other large organisations lowering their sick pay for unvaccinated employees in a bid to save absence costs and encourage staff to get vaccinated – Wessex Water and Morrisons are others. And it is not just large employers who are considering this; we have been advising SMEs on the implications of doing so too.
Cutting sick pay in this way may seem like an appealing option if you are an employer struggling with staff absences and the associated costs. However this could have a real impact on staff and lead to complaints or even claims. Careful advice should be sought before implementing any changes; our specialist employment law team would be happy to advise on the implications for your business.
How we can help
Please get in touch with our employment lawyers if you require advice generally or help with anything relating to this topic.
