Extension of entitlement to statutory sick pay to those who are ‘shielding’ as a result of the coronavirus outbreak

New statutory instrument

New regulations have been issued in relation to entitlement to statutory sick pay for those who are 'shielding' as a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

In force from 16 April 2020, the Statutory Sick Pay (General) (Coronavirus Amendment) (No. 3) Regulations 2020 (SI.No.427/2020) amend the Schedule to the Statutory Sick Pay (General) Regulations 1982, that sets out those who are deemed to be incapable of work by reason of coronavirus, to also include a person who -

• is defined in public health guidance as extremely vulnerable and at very high risk of severe illness from coronavirus because of an underlying health condition; and
• has been advised, by notification sent to, or in respect of, that person in accordance with that guidance, to follow rigorously shielding measures for the period specified in the notification.

NB - the guidance referred to is that issued by Public Health England, the Scottish Ministers or Public Heath Wales.

SI.No.427/2020 is available from legislation.gov.uk