Statutory Sick Pay

[hotlips1]

I've been with my present employer for 8 months. Within the coming 3 months I shall be going into Hospital for an Aortic Valve replacement. When I was first employed my health was fine and this has been diagnosed in the last 3 months. I've been told by my Consultant I will need 3 months off work to recover. As the company I work for doesn't pay sick money I know I am entitled to Statutory Sick Pay. My employers are getting funny about me going to have the time off after the op.They are saying they are not obliged to keep my job open for me. Can anyone help me as to where I stand please?

[cascarelli]

They are possibly right. Check your contract of employment. Many contracts have clauses which state that you must have a satisfactory attendance record and that a poor attendance record (howsoever caused) can result in dismissal.

In the first 12 months of employment it's relatively easy to dismiss a person so long as its not discriminatory, pregnancy related etc.

[buildersmate]

SSP isn't very much money and its paid out by the Government. Company might pay you, but get an equivalent sum back through NI.
Legally your employer is not obliged to keep your job open. Maybe the Company Handbook sheds some light on what the company norms are - or ask HR. The best you can expect is that they agree to take on a Temp in the role while you are away. Mention how committed you are, and stress that you were in fine shape before and your consultant predicts a complete recovery (if true).