The Employment Rights Bill 2024 introduces key changes that UK HR professionals and employers need to understand and implement. This legislation aims to modernise workplace protections and ensure greater fairness in employment practices. To remain compliant, HR departments must stay updated on these changes and adapt their processes accordingly. Here are 11 critical points from the new Employment Rights Bill that HR should be aware of, along with how HR Hub Plus’s online HR compliance training can help navigate these updates.
Day-One Rights for Unfair Dismissal
One of the most significant changes is the introduction of unfair dismissal protections from day one of employment. Previously, employees needed two years of service to qualify for this protection. Now, HR teams must carefully manage dismissals from the start of employment to avoid legal risks.
Default Right to Flexible Working
Flexible working has become a default option, requiring employers to justify any refusal. This shift acknowledges the changing nature of work, with more employees seeking a better work-life balance. HR teams must prepare to handle these requests in a fair and compliant manner.
Enhanced Leave Entitlements
The new legislation offers improved leave entitlements, including paternity, parental, and bereavement leave from the first day of employment. This change aims to provide better support for working families, and HR needs to ensure these policies are clearly communicated and implemented.
Statutory Sick Pay Reforms
Statutory sick pay has been expanded, with eligibility starting from the first day of illness and no lower earnings threshold. This update broadens the coverage of sick pay, requiring employers to adjust their payroll processes accordingly.
Zero-Hours Contract Protections
To improve job security for those on zero-hours contracts, the bill introduces a right to request more predictable hours after a certain period. HR departments must be prepared to manage these requests and adapt contracts as needed.
Increased Transparency in Contracts
The legislation mandates more transparency in employment contracts, including clearer information on working hours, pay, and benefits. Employers must review and update existing contracts to ensure compliance with these new requirements.
Expanded Redundancy Protections
Redundancy protections have been extended to include more groups of employees, such as those on fixed-term contracts and certain types of agency workers. HR needs to understand these changes to ensure fair and compliant redundancy processes.
Stronger Penalties for Non-Compliance
The bill increases penalties for employers found in violation of employment rights. This makes it more crucial than ever for HR departments to understand the new requirements and ensure that all practices meet the legal standards.
Emphasis on Mental Health Support
The bill underscores the importance of mental health in the workplace, encouraging employers to offer support and accommodations. This includes recognising stress and other mental health conditions as reasons for reasonable adjustments.
Enhanced Rights for Agency Workers
Agency workers now have improved rights, including clearer terms regarding pay parity and working conditions. HR departments that work with temporary staff need to review their practices to ensure compliance with these new rights.
Greater Focus on Discrimination Protections
The legislation reinforces protections against discrimination, aiming to create more inclusive workplaces. HR teams must ensure that training and policies reflect these values to prevent any form of discrimination within their organisations.
Our Flexible 3-Month HR Retainer Can Help
HR Hub Plus Limited offers a Flexible 3-Month HR Retainer package that can provide the expertise and support your business needs to stay compliant with the new Employment Rights Bill. For HR professionals and employers, understanding and complying with these changes is critical. With the dedicated guidance provided by our HR Retainer, businesses can confidently adapt to these changes, creating a compliant, productive, and positive working environment.
