Plain English Guides

Every major change from the Employment Rights Act 2025, explained without jargon. Written for business owners and managers, not lawyers.

Already in force — April 2026

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Statutory Sick Pay from Day 1 — what it means for your business

In force

The lower earnings limit is gone. Waiting days are gone. Every employee qualifies from their first day. What changed, who's affected, and what you need to do now.

ERA 2025, s.8–10 · ~900 words · 5 min read

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Unfair dismissal qualifying period — what changes on 1 January 2027

Coming Jan 2027

From 1 January 2027, the qualifying period drops to 6 months with no lighter-touch initial period. The 2-year rule applies until then. Here's what to prepare and how the change affects your dismissal procedures.

ERA 2025, s.20–25 · ~950 words · 5 min read

Coming soon — October 2026 and January 2027

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Zero-hours contracts — what's changing and when

Oct 2026 + 2027

Shift notice and cancellation payment rights from October 2026. Guaranteed hours right from 2027 (exact date TBC). If you use zero-hours contracts in hospitality, retail, care, or logistics — here's how to prepare.

ERA 2025, s.1–7 · ~900 words · 5 min read

Coming later — 2027 onwards

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Menopause Action Plans — what employers with 250+ staff must do (spring 2027)

Currently voluntary for 250+ employers. Mandatory from spring 2027 for 250+ only. Smaller employers are not affected by the mandatory requirement. Guide in preparation.

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Fair Work Agency — already launched 7 April 2026

The Fair Work Agency launched on 7 April 2026. It consolidates enforcement of minimum wage, holiday pay, and agency worker regulations with stronger inspection and penalty powers. Guide in preparation.

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Right to Disconnect — what employers need to know

Under consultation. Guide coming when legislation confirmed.

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