Given the comparatively high proportion of low paid workers in Wales, we were concerned to hear of issues regarding the eligibility criteria for Statutory Sick Pay. While we acknowledge that there may be other support available to unwell workers, the pandemic has highlighted the dangers of someone attending work when they are unwell. Sick pay benefits wider society, not just the sick, and we would welcome the UK Government reviewing the eligibility criteria for this benefit. (Paragraph 82) Th...

Given the comparatively high proportion of low paid workers in Wales, we were concerned to hear of issues regarding the eligibility criteria for Statutory Sick Pay. While we acknowledge that there may be other support available to unwell workers, the pandemic has highlighted the dangers of someone attending work when they are unwell. Sick pay benefits wider society, not just the sick, and we would welcome the UK Government reviewing the eligibility criteria for this benefit. (Paragraph 82) The Benefits System in Wales 43 Type: conclusion | Number: 6 | Response status: under_consideration Government response: The UK Government has already taken action in response to Baroness McGregor-Smith’s report, commissioned by the Secretary of State, to significantly improve the work incentives in Universal Credit. Since last November, the UK Government has cut the Universal Credit taper rate from 63% to 55% and inc