This step-by-step timeline outlines when the major reforms in the Employment Rights Bill are expected to come into effect. While the exact schedule could change as consultations progress and the Bill moves through Parliament, this guide is designed to help employers plan ahead, respond early, and prepare for each stage of reform.

Soon after Royal Assent (Expected Winter 2025)

• Protection from dismissal for employees taking part in lawful industrial action

• Simplified rules for ballots and notice periods relating to industrial action

April 2026

• Day-one entitlements for family rights, including statutory paternity leave and unpaid parental leave

• Statutory Sick Pay available from the first day of absence and extended to low-paid workers

• Protective awards for collective redundancy doubled

• Establishment of the Fair Work Agency to oversee enforcement of labour standards

• Simplified process for trade union recognition

• Inclusion of sexual harassment as a qualifying disclosure under whistleblowing laws

October 2026

• New restrictions on the use of fire-and-rehire practices

• Increased trade union access rights

• Legal duty to inform all workers of their right to join a trade union

• Enhanced rights and protections for trade union representatives

• Wider protections against unfair treatment for participating in industrial action

• Extended time limits for bringing claims to employment tribunals

• Stronger legal protections against harassment and sexual harassment in the workplace

During 2027

• Restrictions on zero-hours contracts

• Legal right to reasonable notice of shifts and changes to shift patterns

• Day-one right to claim unfair dismissal, alongside new statutory rules for probationary periods

• Mandatory equality action plans for larger employers

• Stronger protections for pregnant employees and those returning from family leave

• Statutory right to bereavement leave

• Strengthened flexible working rights

• Lower threshold for triggering collective redundancy consultation requirements

How Bhayani Law can support you

Whether you’re already working with us or exploring options for the first time, we can help you plan for the Employment Rights Bill changes and protect your business. Contact us today at 0333 888 1360 or email [email protected]