Redundancy support
If you're signed off sick during or after redundancy
5 min read
Being made redundant while signed off sick — or becoming unwell shortly after — is more common than people realise. The right support depends on whether you're still employed.
Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)
If you're still employed, SSP is paid by your employer for up to 28 weeks. It stops when your employment ends.
New Style Employment and Support Allowance
After your job ends (or if SSP isn't available), New Style ESA may apply if your NI record is strong enough. It's not means-tested and can be claimed alongside UC.
Limited capability for work (UC element)
If a Work Capability Assessment finds you have limited capability for work, UC gets an extra monthly element. The assessment usually happens 13 weeks after you provide a fit note.
See what you may be entitled to
The free check gives an indicative view in about five minutes. No login.
Frequently asked questions
Sources
See our methodology for how we use these sources.
Related reading
Redundancy support hub
Calm step-by-step guidance for the weeks after redundancy.
Mental health support after redundancy
Free emotional and mental health support for people in the UK going through job loss — and what benefits may apply.
Benefits after redundancy: what you may be able to claim
An overview of UK benefits to consider after redundancy — Universal Credit, New Style JSA, Council Tax Reduction, and contribution-based options.
Benefits while signed off sick
Statutory Sick Pay, Universal Credit and New Style ESA — what UK employees and workers may be able to claim while signed off sick.
Benefits if you cannot work due to illness
Universal Credit, New Style ESA and PIP for people in the UK who can't work due to long-term illness or disability — what may be available and how it fits together.