Managing Sickness Absence: 2026 Toolkit for Small Businesses

Managing staff absence effectively is essential for maintaining productivity and supporting your team's wellbeing. However, with the significant changes to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) being introduced in April 2026, many existing policies and processes are now out of date.

We have developed a comprehensive, downloadable toolkit designed specifically for small business owners and line managers. This resource provides everything you need to manage absence professionally, fairly, and in full compliance with current UK employment law.

What is included in the toolkit?

• Line Manager’s Guide to Absence Management: A practical manual covering how to handle short-term and long-term absence, including advice on triggers and supportive interventions.

• Updated Sickness Absence Policy: A ready-to-use policy template fully updated to reflect the 2026 removal of SSP waiting days and the abolition of the Lower Earnings Limit.

• Staff Communication Template: A pre-written letter or email to update your employees on the current reporting procedures and their sick pay entitlements.

• Return to Work Form: A structured template to ensure every return-to-work conversation is consistent, documented, and focused on support.

• Self-Certification Form: A simple document for staff to record the reasons for short-term absences in line with statutory requirements.

This toolkit ensures that you have the right documentation in place to handle sensitive situations with confidence, while staying compliant with the latest legislative shifts.