Further updates to Employment Law for April 2026

The Government has published the enabling regulations for SSP changes that will come into force on 6 April 2026

Under the new regulations, from 6 April 2026:

• SSP becomes payable from day 1 rather than day 4;
• all eligible employees regardless of earnings will be entitled to SSP.
• SSP rate is the lower of the statutory rate (£123.25 per week for 2026/27) or 80% of the employee’s normal weekly earnings;
• if someone is in the qualifying period prior to 6 April (e.g. off sick from 5 April continuing), then they will receive SSP for any day of sick that falls on or after 6 April 2026

Changes to the Vento bands

The usual uplifts to the Vento bands for injury to feelings compensation have been set, in respect of claims presented on or after 6 April 2026:

• lower band for less serious cases – £1,300 – £12,600
• middle band for cases that do not merit an award in the upper band – £12,600 – £37,700
• upper band for the most serious cases – £37,700 – £62,900
• most exceptional cases – £62,900+

Contact our employment law solicitors today

If you require further support, we would be happy to discuss the changes in detail with you and see how Ashtons Legal can assist your business further.

If you have any questions or concerns about the updates provided above, please contact a member of our Employment Law team. You can use our online enquiry form or call 0330 191 5713.