Employment Rights Bill

  • Unfair Dismissal and the Employment Rights Act

    Unfair Dismissal and the Employment Rights Act

    In this article we return to the Employment Rights Act 2025 (ERA), focusing on changes to unfair dismissal and their potential impact on employers. 6-month service requirement (estimated in early 2027) When the Labour government swept to power they promised a day-one right to claim unfair dismissal for employees. Since then they have backtracked somewhat.…

  • Employment Rights Bill Roadmap

    Employment Rights Bill Roadmap

    The government has produced what they called a “Roadmap” for the various parts of the Employment Rights Bill.    This Bill has been a difficult one to plan for, due to two reasons. Firstly, many important parts of it are left unspecified with the gaps to be filled in by future legislation and, secondly, that…

  • Harassment by Third Parties – Employment Rights Bill

    Harassment by Third Parties – Employment Rights Bill

    Under current employment law, employers are not liable where a worker they engage suffers harassment from a third party. This is even when it is in the course of their work.  The Employment Rights Bill (“the Bill”) will change this significantly. Almost every employer in scope… A major change, that will be implemented by the…

  • Zero Hours: Guaranteed Hours Contract

    Zero Hours: Guaranteed Hours Contract

    The Government’s employment law reforms tackle, what they consider to be, the ‘exploitative practices’ with zero hours contracts. Whether you agree with this characterisation or not, you cannot ignore the new zero hours provisions.  One plank of the Government’s response are the guaranteed hours provisions. Our technical zone note looks to provide more detail on…

  • Cancelling Shifts On Zero Hour Contracts

    Cancelling Shifts On Zero Hour Contracts

    Alongside the guaranteed hours measures, the Employment Rights Bill (the “Bill”) will also enact provisions aimed at compensating employees that suffer short notice shift cancellations/ curtailment. These provisions represent the other plank of the Government’s focus on tackling the ‘exploitative practices’ that they believe are a result of zero hours contracts. More detail on the…

  • Day One Employment Rights in the UK

    Day One Employment Rights in the UK

    The landscape of UK employment law is set for a significant shift. With a dramatic departure from legal norms, with wide-ranging implications for employers, HR professionals, and employees alike. While the proposed Employment Rights Bill aims to create fairer access to employment rights, many practical and legal questions remain unanswered. As the details evolve, understanding…

  • Fair Work Agency – Employment Rights Bill

    Fair Work Agency – Employment Rights Bill

    The Fair Work Agency, which will be established by the Employment Rights Bill (the “Bill”) marks a major reform in how the UK enforces employment rights. By creating a single enforcement body—the Fair Work Agency (FWA)—the Bill aims to streamline oversight.  While many details remain undecided, the FWA promises to shift the balance of power.…

Introduction to the Employment Rights Bill

The Employment Rights Bill sets out new rules to protect workers and strengthen their rights in the modern workplace. As businesses and working practices evolve, the Labour government’s flagship legislation aims to close legal gaps and improve fairness. 

It is crucial for employers to understand how the Bill may affect your responsibilities and working practices. These guides break down the key changes and offer insight into what the Bill could mean for your business.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the Employment Rights Bill?

The Employment Rights Bill is proposed legislation that updates and strengthens existing employment laws. It focuses on improving job security, rights for flexible workers, and protections for vulnerable individuals.

Who does the Bill apply to?

It applies to employers and workers across the UK, including those in traditional employment and newer gig economy roles.

What are the key changes in the Bill?

The Bill introduces significant rights around unfair dismissal, flexible working, redundancy protection during maternity leave, and stricter rules on zero-hours contracts as well as a new enforcement body, the Fair Work Agency.

When will the Bill take effect?

The Bill is currently under review in Parliament. If passed, a timeline for implementation will follow, with many of the changes expected in the autumn of 2026.

How should employers prepare?

Employers should review their current contracts and HR policies. Staying informed will help ensure compliance once the Bill becomes law.

Does the Bill affect existing contracts?

Yes, existing agreements may need updates to meet the new legal standards and working practices will almost certainly need to change.

Where can I get expert advice?

Chartergates provides legal support for businesses navigating employment law changes. Contact us for tailored guidance.

Stay Ahead of the Curve—Partner with Compliance Experts

At Chartergates, we specialise in helping businesses, agencies, and contractors navigate the complex world of the Employment Rights Bill. Whether you need legal insight, contract reviews, or compliance audits, our team of industry-leading advisors is here to support you.

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