Employment Rights Act: sick pay from day one and harassment duties for care employers

Statutory Sick Pay from day one, a new Fair Work Agency and stronger harassment duties. A short checklist for care home employers.

InLine Care Team · 19/10/2026

Since April 2026, Statutory Sick Pay has been payable from the first day of absence, not the fourth. The new Fair Work Agency now enforces SSP, holiday pay and the minimum wage. Employers are also expected to take "all reasonable steps" to prevent sexual harassment of staff, including harassment from residents and visitors.

Checklist:

• Update your sickness policy and make sure payroll pays SSP from day one.
• Review your rota cover budget, because day-one SSP changes the cost of short absences.
• Update your harassment risk assessment to cover residents, families and visitors, and brief staff on how to report concerns.

Short-notice cover: InLine supplies nurses, HCAs and support workers across London and Berkshire, including nights. 24/7 line: 020 3937 9356.

Sources

• HCR Law — Employment Rights Act: key considerations for care employers

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• The InLine Care Update – October 2026 (care providers)

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