Big changes to workplace rights start next week
02.04.26
From next week, new provisions under the Employment Rights Act 2025 will come into effect. These changes strengthen individual rights and enforcement, and give reps more scope to support members and challenge poor practice.
What’s changing:
Protective awards in collective redundancy cases will increase to 180 days’ pay
Paternity leave and unpaid parental leave will become day one rights
Whistleblowing protections will extend to cover sexual harassment
Statutory Sick Pay will be payable from day one and to more workers
A new right to bereaved partner’s leave will be introduced
A new Fair Work Agency will take on a stronger enforcement role
Large employers will be expected to develop gender pay action plans
What this means for reps:
These changes provide a stronger framework to raise issues with employers, support members in enforcing their rights, and engage in consultations and workplace negotiations
NOTE
Workers’ rights have been hard won and the result is the Employment Rights Act. Reform UK has announced plans to scrap key protections for workers and renters through a so-called “Great Repeal Bill.” These new rights are at risk—and what happens next matters. This is really a “Great Steal”—threatening vital protections like sick pay, bereavement leave, and pregnancy rights for millions.
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