Sick leave is a minimum statutory entitlement under the Holidays Act 2003 (‘the Act’) and a frequent source of compliance risk for employers. Issues most commonly arise around eligibility, proof requirements, payment calculations, and the management of repeat or extended absences.

Failing to manage sick leave obligations can present legal risk to employers, including protracted employment disputes and non-compliance claims. Such issues underscore the importance of employer’s being informed about this area of employment law before making associated decisions like managing sick leave requests.