Redefining Workplace Rules: Changes to Employment Law
With the government proposing over 60 Employment Law changes aimed at strengthening employee rights, businesses must stay ahead of these updates to remain compliant. From Day-One employee rights to changes in sick pay and flexible working, let’s break down the key updates and what they mean for your business.
Employee Rights: What’s Changing?
A significant shift in employee rights is on the horizon, with the removal of statutory qualifying periods. This means that from day one, employees will be entitled to:
- Unfair dismissal protection
- Statutory sick pay (SSP)
- Maternity and paternity leave
Additionally, zero-hour contracts will become more structured, ensuring employees receive regular hours if they work consistently.
The government also aims to unify employment rights, meaning a single framework will govern benefits such as holiday pay, sick leave, and maternity entitlements.
New Statutory Rights and Leave Policies
Among the proposed Employment Law changes, statutory bereavement leave will become a universal right for all employees. While many businesses already offer this, a standardized approach ensures fairness across industries.
A “Right to Switch Off” policy, intended to help employees maintain work-life balance, was initially introduced but has been paused for now. However, it remains a potential future consideration.
Legislation Updates: Compliance is Key
Businesses must prepare for these major legislative updates:
- Statutory Sick Pay (SSP): Currently paid from the fourth day of absence, it will now be available from day one.
- Lower Earnings Limit Removal: Employees will receive SSP regardless of their earnings.
- Flexible Working as a Default: Employees will have the right to flexible working arrangements from their first day of employment.
- Extended Tribunal Claim Period: Employees will have up to six months (instead of three) to bring claims, increasing the risk of disputes.
Financial Implications: Wage and Insurance Changes
Starting in April 2025, employers must prepare for:
- An increase in the National Living Wage to £12.21 per hour.
- Higher minimum wages for younger employees and apprentices.
- Employer’s National Insurance contribution increase from 13.8% to 15%.
- A reduction in the NI threshold, meaning employers will contribute earlier.
These changes will significantly impact payroll costs, making it essential for businesses to budget accordingly.
What Does This Mean for Businesses?
The changes largely favour employees, requiring companies to adapt their contracts, policies, and management strategies. Businesses should:
- Review and update employment contracts to reflect the new rights and wage changes.
- Ensure handbooks and policies align with the latest legislation.
- Train managers on new employment laws, flexible working arrangements, and performance management.
- Plan for financial impacts due to increased payroll and employer contributions.
Preparing for the Future: How We Can Help
Navigating HR changes can be complex, but businesses don’t have to do it alone. TC Group offers:
✅ HR Health Checks to assess compliance and highlight areas needing improvement.
✅ Manager training programs to equip leaders with the knowledge to handle workplace changes.
✅ Support with redundancy processes, ensuring legal compliance and fair treatment of employees.
✅ Assistance with policy updates, from contracts to flexible working guidelines.
Staying compliant with evolving employment laws is essential for business success. By proactively adjusting contracts, updating policies, and training managers, companies can ensure smooth transitions while maintaining a productive workforce.
Need HR support? Contact us today for a free consultation and stay ahead of the Employment Law changes!