Absence & Sickness Management Guides
Managing employee absence, sickness, Bradford Factor scoring, SSP, return-to-work processes, and occupational health in the UK.
All Absence & Sickness Management Articles
![SSP Changes April 2026: Day-One Sick Pay [Employer Guide]](/_next/image?url=%2Fimages%2Fblog%2Fssp-changes-2026.jpg&w=1920&q=75)
SSP Changes April 2026: Day-One Sick Pay [Employer Guide]
From 6 April 2026, SSP is payable from day one, the Lower Earnings Limit is abolished, and a new 80% AWE cap applies. Here is what UK employers need to know and do before the changes take effect.
![Self-Certification Sick Leave UK: 7-Day Rule [2026]](/_next/image?url=%2Fimages%2Fblog%2Fself-certification.jpg&w=1920&q=75)
Self-Certification Sick Leave UK: 7-Day Rule [2026]
Employees can self-certify sick leave for up to 7 calendar days before needing a fit note. Covers SC2 forms, employer duties, and what to do when the 7 days are up.

Return-to-Work Interview Template & Questions
A practical guide to conducting return-to-work interviews with a ready-to-use template, question bank, and advice on linking interviews to Bradford Factor monitoring.

Long-Term Sickness Absence: UK Employer Obligations Guide
A practical guide for UK employers managing employees on long-term sick leave, covering legal obligations, occupational health, and return-to-work planning.

Disability Absence & the Equality Act: Guide
Understanding your obligations when managing absence for employees with disabilities, including reasonable adjustments, Bradford Factor exemptions, and tribunal risks.

Occupational Health Referrals: UK Guide
A practical guide for UK employers on occupational health referrals: when to refer, the consent process, what questions to ask, and how to use OH reports.

Absence Management Policy Template for UK Employers
A ready-to-use absence management policy template covering reporting procedures, return-to-work interviews, Bradford Factor trigger points, and employee support.

Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) 2026: Rates, Rules & Employer Guide
Complete guide to Statutory Sick Pay in 2026: current rates, eligibility criteria, waiting days, and step-by-step administration for UK employers.
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![Bradford Factor Calculator: UK Employer Guide [2026]](/_next/image?url=%2Fimages%2Fblog%2Fbradford-factor.jpg&w=1920&q=75)