ESA and SSP1

Hi all,

I have posted previously regarding a colleague and her situation at work and the advice was greatly appreciated.

Said colleague had had quite some time off work and as such has now handed her notice in from 1st Feb. She has now decided to apply for ESA and was told that she would need an SSP1(?) from employer before any claim can be processed.

She has spoken to the employer and has been told that no SSP1 will be issued as they are treating her absence as unauthorised and not sickness absence (unsure as to why).

I just want to ask why she needs the SSP1 form and how not having this will affect her claim for ESA?

Any advice greatly appreciated,

Thanks in advance,

RL.