Major reforms took effect in April 2026, with further changes coming in October 2026. This is the biggest overhaul of UK employment law in over a decade, affecting all employers, regardless of size.
If your contracts or staff handbook haven’t been reviewed recently, your business could already be exposed to risk.
Key changes already in force
Under the first phase of the Employment Rights Act 2025, employers are now facing:
- Day‑one rights to statutory paternity leave and unpaid parental leave
- Statutory Sick Pay from day one, with the earnings threshold removed
- A new bereaved partner’s paternity leave entitlement
- Stronger whistleblowing protections, including sexual harassment disclosures
- Double the potential compensation in collective redundancy cases (up to 180 days’ pay)
- Increased enforcement following the launch of the Fair Work Agency
These reforms impact employment contracts, HR policies, sickness absence and redundancy procedures. Outdated documents may leave employers non‑compliant and vulnerable to claims.
More change ahead — October 2026
Further reforms are expected later this year, including enhanced harassment protections, longer Tribunal time limits and strengthened Trade Union rights. Early preparation will be key.
Free contract & handbook review
We offer a free, no‑obligation review to help you:
- Identify compliance gaps
- Understand what needs updating now
- Prepare confidently for October 2026
Protect your business. Reduce risk. Stay compliant.
Contact our emplyoment law team today on 0800 652 8025 or get in touch online.
