Upcoming Employment Law Changes – What Employers Need to Know

The Employment Rights Bill was introduced in 2024 and sets out the biggest shake-up in employment law for decades. The changes won’t all happen overnight — instead, they’ll be phased in from 2026 onwards.

For businesses employing staff, this means now is the time to start preparing.

Key changes to be aware of

• Day one employment rights
  From 2027, employees will gain key rights from their very first day, rather than waiting years. This includes protection from unfair dismissal, sick pay, parental leave, and more.

• Probation periods replaced
  The traditional probation period will go. In its place, a new Initial Period of Employment (up to nine months) is planned, where employers will still need to follow fair processes, but with a lighter touch.

• Longer deadlines for claims
  Employees may have up to six months (instead of three) to bring tribunal claims, increasing the importance of good HR records.

• Zero-hours and casual work restrictions
  Exploitative zero-hours contracts may be banned or restricted. Employers could be required to offer guaranteed or minimum hours to regular staff.

• Harassment and equality duties
  Employers will face a stronger legal duty to prevent workplace harassment and discrimination, with stricter compliance expectations.

• Other protections
  Extra rights are also expected around whistleblowing, flexible working requests, fire-and-rehire practices, and protections for agency and umbrella workers.

What this means for your business

These reforms mean:

• Hiring decisions will carry more legal risk from day one.

• Contracts and policies will need updating before 2026.

• Managers must follow clear, documented processes from the outset.

• Businesses relying on casual staff may need to rethink staffing models.

• HR systems and training will be more important than ever.

How we can help

We’ll make sure you’re ready for the new laws by:

• Reviewing and updating contracts, handbooks, and policies.

• Designing onboarding and performance review processes.

• Helping you implement HR systems that keep records watertight.

• Training managers so they understand the new rules.

• Providing ongoing support as further changes are phased in.

👉 With the right preparation, these changes don’t have to be disruptive. We’ll help you stay compliant, protect your business, and give your employees the fair workplace they deserve.