[summerdown2]

It doesn't apply to the UK. If you're sick, be sick. You'll be paid, too.

A few caveats:

1. The above is for permanent positions. If you're a contractor the rules are different.

2. The above is true once you're through probation, which might be the first six months.

3. I have no idea what it's like in startups. I've only ever worked for big companies or the government.

But in general, sick leave is a benefit like a company car or flexible working. If it's in your contract, no one will mind you using it.

A point about holiday leave, too. In the UK, it's usual to take holidays. Everyone does, and then we talk about them in the office afterwards. It's considered part of being a rounded human being. Most holiday entitlements don't roll over, either, so if you don't use your 30 days (for example), you lose the remainder. This means there's a bit of a scramble to get them used up before rollover day. Everyone does this, and you'll be looked upon as a bit peculiar if you don't use the holidays you're entitled to.