Staying at home
If you have symptoms of coronavirus infection, however mild, stay at home and do not leave your house for 7 days from when your symptoms started.
Self-isolation and sick pay
Employees and workers must receive any Statutory Sick Pay due to them if they need to self-isolate because:
– they have coronavirus
– they have coronavirus symptoms, for example, a high temperature or new continuous cough
– someone in their household has coronavirus symptoms
– they’ve been told to self-isolate by a doctor or NHS 111
If someone has symptoms, everyone in their household must self-isolate for 14 days. Those who live alone must self-isolate for 7 days.
If an employee or worker cannot work, they should tell their employer:
– as soon as possible
– the reason
– how long they’re likely to be off for
The employer might need to be flexible if they require evidence from the employee or worker.
Find advice about self-isolating on NHS.UK.
My employer wants me to come to work even though I feel ill, what should I do?
Employees should take time off work if they are ill. The Government is clear that employers should support their staff’s welfare, especially during an extended response.
My employer wants me to come to work. How do I respond when I don’t have a sick note?
Employees should take time off work if they’re ill.
By law, medical evidence is not required for the first 7 days of sickness (that is, employees can self-certify). After 7 days, it is for the employer to determine what evidence they require, if any, from the employee. To make it easier for people to provide evidence a form will shortly be available through NHS 111 online.
Will my boss believe that I need to be at home? Will it risk my job?
Employees should take time off work if they’re ill.
By law, medical evidence is not required for the first 7 days of sickness (employees can self-certify). After 7 days, it is for the employer to determine what evidence they require, if any, from the employee.
Working from home
I can’t work from home. There’s no space and the kids get in the way. Can my employer make me work from home?
You should discuss your situation with your employer. The Government expects most employers and employees to reach a sensible compromise and come to a solution that best meets both parties’ needs, bearing in mind the latest public health advice.
Sick pay
Will my employer be obliged to pay me while I stay at home?
Statutory Sick Pay will be paid from day 1 instead of day 4 for those affected by coronavirus.
What about if I have a zero hours contract?
You may be entitled to Statutory Sick Pay. Check with your employer if you’re unsure.
If you’re not entitled to Statutory Sick Pay, you may be able to apply for Universal Credit or Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
What about if I’m self-employed?
You can apply for Universal Credit.
What if the whole family has to stay at home and there’s no income coming in?
If no one is getting Statutory Sick Pay, the family can apply for Universal Credit.
