If you’ve had an injury at work, the last thing you want to be worrying about is whether you’ll be getting paid. We’re here to help clear this up.
Read on to learn all about whether you’re entitled to sick pay after an accident at work, and what other payments you may be entitled to.
Do I Get Full Pay If I’m Off Sick Due to an Injury at Work?
It depends entirely on your contract. Your employer isn’t legally required to give you a full salary whilst you are off sick – unless, however, it is outlined in your employment contract.
Most employers will provide Statutory Sick Pay (SSP), which is a minimum of £118.75 a week (as of April 2025). However, some employers offer enhanced sick pay. If enhanced sick pay is outlined in your contract, then you will be eligible for a full salary for three months.
Am I Entitled to Get Statutory Sick Pay?
Yes, you are entitled to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) after an accident at work if you meet the following criteria:
- You have been off sick for more than 4 days in a row (including non-working days)
- You earn more than £125 per week
- You have told your employer within the required time period
Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is the minimum amount of sick pay that employers must provide to employees who are off work due to illness or injury.
You will only receive SSP for a maximum of 28 weeks. If you have a long-term injury after an accident at work, SSP alone may not be enough. The good news is that if the accident was not your fault, we can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Do I Need a Fit Note?
Yes, you will need a sick note (also known as a fit note) if you are off sick from work for more than 7 calendar days, even if you don’t work every day. However, if your absence is seven days or less, including weekends and bank holidays, then you can self-certify.
Your fit note may include recommendations for workplace adjustments. For example, if you have had a slip, trip or fall at work, your fit note may suggest altered duties to make your return to work easier.
Your employer is obligated to consider the advice presented in the fit note, and could face legal liability if they do not.
Steps to Take After an Injury at Work
Your employer is legally required to take steps to protect you whilst you are working, as per the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. If you have been injured at work, your employer may be liable – and you may be eligible for compensation.
After a workplace injury, it is essential to act promptly to protect your rights. Here are the key steps you should take:
1. Report the Injury
Report the accident to your employer as soon as possible. This will create an official record of the incident.
2. Seek Medical Attention
Your health and recovery should be your priority. Seek medical attention immediately, whether it be through a first aider at work, your GP or your local A&E department. Be sure to follow your doctor’s advice for treatment and recovery.
3. Document Everything
Make a record of how the injury occurred, names of any witnesses, and details of medical treatments you’ve received. Keep records of any conversations you have with your employer or HR department regarding your absence and pay, as this may be used as evidence when claiming compensation.
4. Claim Compensation
If the injury was not your fault, you may be entitled to compensation through a personal injury claim. At CEL Solicitors, we can help guide you through the claims process and ensure you get the compensation you deserve. Compensation can cover things like medical expenses, lost earnings, and future care costs, depending on the severity of your injury.
Find out your rights after being injured at work here.
What Will I Be Paid for a Workplace Injury?
After a workplace injury, you may be compensated for general damages (physical suffering) and special damages (any financial losses). This could include:
- Any physical pain you’ve experienced (or continue to experience)
- Emotional distress (such as depression, anxiety, or other mental health impacts)
- Loss of enjoyment in your usual hobbies and social activities
- Costs for treatment and healthcare (such as physiotherapy)
- The expense of hiring a carer (if required)
- Travel costs (such as hospital parking fees)
- The cost of replacing items damaged during the accident (such as clothing)
- Aids or home modifications to assist with any ongoing disability
- Loss of income and future earnings if your ability to work is affected by the injury
How Do I Make a Claim?
Claiming after an accident at work has never been easier with CEL Solicitors on hand. We’ll assess your case, explain your options, and guide you through the claims process step by step. Please note that you have no more than three years from the date of the accident to file a compensation claim.
Enquire today or call 0333 305 4982. We can help you to collect all the evidence you need (such as medical reports, photographs, CCTV and witness statements. We offer a free consultation, and if you decide to move forward with your claim, we will take care of all the legal aspects, from submitting paperwork to liaising with insurers.
