Moorcroft Packaging Staff Sick Pay Guide

Who the scheme covers

Moorcroft Packaging pays its own sick pay on top of the minimum amount required by law. Every employee on a permanent contract is covered from the first day of employment, but the amount you receive depends on how long you have worked for the company. Temporary staff who were hired through an agency should contact that agency, which is responsible for any payment they are owed while they are ill.

How much you will receive

During your first year, you will receive full pay for up to two weeks of sickness in any twelve-month period. After one year of service this rises to six weeks at full pay, followed by six weeks at half pay. Staff with more than five years' service receive twelve weeks at full pay. Overtime and shift allowances are not included in sick pay, as they are only paid for hours actually worked.

Telling us you are ill

If you are unable to come to work, you must telephone your line manager personally no later than one hour before your shift is due to start. A text message or email is not acceptable unless you are in hospital or have lost your voice. If your manager cannot be reached, leave a message with the duty supervisor and give a number where you can be contacted during the day. You should then keep your manager informed at least every three days.

Evidence of sickness

For absences of up to seven calendar days, you can certify your own sickness by completing a self-certification form on your return. For longer periods, a fit note from your doctor is required, and it should reach the Human Resources office within three days of the eighth day of absence. Copies can be scanned and emailed; you do not need to send the original.

Returning to work

On your first day back, your line manager will hold a short return-to-work meeting with you. The purpose is to check that you are well enough to carry out your normal duties and to discuss any changes that might help, such as lighter tasks for a few days. If you have had three or more separate absences in six months, you may also be asked to see the company's occupational health adviser, who will treat anything you say in confidence.

When sick pay may be stopped

Company sick pay is a benefit, not a right, and may be withheld if the reporting rules are not followed without good reason. It will also be stopped if you take part in any activity that is likely to delay your recovery, or if you work for another employer while you are signed off. The legal minimum will still be paid in these cases, provided you meet the conditions set by the government.