Employees in the UK benefit from a range of protections put in place by the Government. If you intend to work in the UK or hire someone in the country, it’s important to be aware of them. There are many important rules, regulations, and rights to be aware of. Many people don’t take the time to learn their rights or those of their employees. It benefits you to know what protections you have, especially since the UK offers more than many other countries. Managing your finances is much easier if you take advantage of the benefits available to you. If you intend to live or work in the country, make sure you know about these important benefits.
Statutory Sick Pay
In the UK, workers are entitled to Statutory Sick Pay if they cannot work due to illness. To get SSP, you need to be off work for at least four days in a row. However, this includes the days you wouldn’t ordinarily be working. But how much is statutory sick pay? You are entitled to £88.45 each week, for up to 28 weeks. If your employer has a sick pay scheme, you could also get more than that.
Maternity and Paternity Leave
The laws concerning parental leave changed in 2015. It is now possible for parents in the UK to share their parental leave. After giving birth or adopting a child, the mother can end her maternity leave or pay. Her partner can then use the rest of her leave. When adopting, one partner must end their leave so the other can have the rest. Mothers might be eligible for maternity leave, maternity pay, and other benefits. Fathers might also get one or two weeks paid paternity leave.
Holiday Entitlement
Holiday entitlement can depend on the hours and length of time that you work. However, most full-time workers can receive 28 days of paid holiday a year. Part-time workers usually work out their entitlement using the days they work. For example, if they work three days a week, they would multiply three by 5.6 to get 16.8 days a year. It is a bit more complicated for anyone who works irregular hours. They can work out their entitlement on the Government website.
Health and Safety
The Employment Rights Act 1996 protects you from being harmed at work due to health and safety. You are allowed to perform actions to uphold health and safety without consequences. For example, an employee can’t be dismissed because they point out something harmful. There are also a number of health and safety regulations to protect employees.
Protections for Whistleblowers
UK law protects whistleblowers who report wrongdoing at their workplace. They can report something that is in the public interest and can’t be fired or treated unfairly because of it. Some of the complaints might include a criminal offense, damage to the environment or a risk to health and safety. Being treated unfairly after whistleblowing can mean you can take your case to an employment tribunal.
The UK has some great employee protections. Although, some argue that they could be better. Regardless, they can help to keep your finances healthy.
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