Hi I am looking for advice re the new sick pay scheme. A friend is due to have an elective procedure done which will involve 3 - 4 weeks off work. She has just found out that she can either get it done next week or leave it until late April. I believe the new public sector sick pay scheme rules apply from April 1st ie only 3 months full pay and 3 months half. She is wondering if she would be better off taking sick leave now before the new scheme takes effect ? If she takes it in April she would only have 8 weeks to use in the years ahead if she has health issues. Is everyone starting with a clean slate from 1st April and would it be advisable to go sick earlier rather than later ?