At the age of 23, I received a diagnosis of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, a form of blood cancer. This news came as a shock, requiring me to undergo five weeks of radiotherapy treatment at a specialized facility for young patients. Commuting 40 miles daily to the hospital for my treatment became a demanding routine, making it impossible to continue working at my previous job with a major supermarket chain due to the treatment’s side effects and time-consuming nature.
During this challenging period, the limited sick pay support from my employer, which provided only two weeks of paid sick leave followed by statutory sick pay (SSP) at a rate equivalent to less than £3 per hour for a full-time employee like myself, added to the financial strain. Fortunately, I received crucial support from my partner, family, friends, and organizations such as Young Lives vs Cancer.
Unfortunately, many individuals I have encountered through the Safe Sick Pay campaign have faced even more dire situations, with some receiving no sick pay at all while undergoing treatment. The inadequacy of sick pay not only impacts those battling serious illnesses like cancer but also affects individuals requiring time off for minor health issues. For shift workers, the delay in receiving pay from the fourth day of illness can result in significant income loss.
It is disheartening to learn that some members of the House of Lords are attempting to impede the implementation of day one sick pay rights through the Employment Rights Bill. Denying day one sick pay rights and essential support to low-income earners is unjust. These reforms simply request employers to provide minimal support to help individuals recuperate and return to work safely.
In contrast to the UK, where sick pay rights are insufficient, many countries, particularly in Europe, already have well-established systems that guarantee this essential support. Therefore, I join other affected workers in urging the House of Lords to prioritize the well-being of millions by passing the bill and paving the way for a more effective sick pay system.