You can claim ordinary SPP in blocks of a week or 2 weeks – up to a maximum of 2 weeks. You will be paid either a flat rate per week, or 90% of your average weekly earnings if you earn less than the flat rate per week.
Your average weekly earnings are calculated using your gross pay, which includes the pay that forms part of your NI contributions. The flat rate increases by a few pounds each year. For the tax year 2011-12, it is £128.73 per week.
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