The Department for Work and Pensions has now published its annual rate increases for 23/24. Full details can be found here but a summary as follows:

The annual increase to the minimum wage and national living wage are as follows:-

  • 3+ – £10.42 (previously £9.50)
  • 21-22 – £10.18 (previously £9.18)
  • 18-20 – £7.49 (previously £6.83)
  • 16-17 – £5.28 (previously £4.81)
  • apprentices – £5.28 (previously £4.81)

There has also been an increase to rate for statutory sick pay to £109.40 per week (previously £99.35).

The rate for statutory maternity, paternity, adoption, shared parental and parental bereavement pay will increase to £172.48 per week (previously £156.66). >

A weeks pay is still capped at £571 per week (for pay for calculating redundancy and the unfair dismissal basic award) and we will provide an update if this changes before April 2023.

Other notable items to mention 

Fit Notes
From the 1st July 2022 – Nurses, occupational therapists, pharmacists and physiotherapists working in GP practices or hospitals are now able to issue and sign Fit Notes, meaning you are not restricted by obtaining one solely from your GP.

Long COVID

Long COVID is considered a disability under the Equality Act 2010 (Burke v Turning Point Scotland)

Neonatal Care Bill 

This Bill allows parents whose babies need hospital neonatal care to take 12 weeks’ paid leave in addition to their statutory maternity or paternity leave.  It is anticipated that this right will be available from day one of employment.

Carers Leave

A new entitlement to carer’s leave, as a “day one” right for employees, is introduced.  The leave will consist of one week of unpaid leave per year for those employees with long-term caring responsibilities, to be taken in full or half days.  

If any of these subjects are transpiring within your organisation and you want to discuss or make sure policies and procedures are up to date, please do contact us where we would be happy to support you.