Kings Speech – July 2024 – what does it mean to businesses and their HR? | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds
Following the King’s Speech on Wednesday 17th July 2024, Consensus HR noticed several implications for Human Resources (HR) within businesses in the UK. As expected, the speech outlined the new government’s (Labour) priorities and legislative agenda under Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s administration. Here are some of the key points relevant to HR:
1. Employment Law and Workers’ Rights:
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- There are plans to strengthen workers’ rights, including proposals for fairer wages and better working conditions. This includes potentially increasing the minimum wage and ensuring more secure contracts for workers.
- The government is also focusing on improving parental leave and flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance.
2. Skills and Training:
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Emphasis is being placed on upskilling the workforce. Businesses may need to invest more in training and development programs to align with government initiatives aimed at enhancing productivity and innovation.
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3. Diversity and Inclusion:
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- There is a renewed commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace. This includes measures to close gender and ethnicity pay gaps and to ensure equal opportunities for all employees.
4. Health and Well-being:
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- The government intends to enhance mental health support within workplaces. Employers might need to implement more comprehensive health and well-being programs to comply with new regulations and support their employees’ mental health
5. Regulatory Changes:
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- There will be updates to existing employment regulations to ensure they are fit for the modern workplace, particularly in the context of remote and hybrid working arrangements.
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6. Environmental Policies:
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- The government’s push towards a greener economy means businesses might need to adopt more sustainable practices. This could involve changes in how businesses operate and manage their resources, impacting HR policies related to sustainability training and green initiatives.
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Our HR comment:
Kings Speech – July 2024 – what does it mean to businesses and their HR? | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds
Matthew Chilcott, Owner of Consensus HR comments: – “It was great to finally hear the Kings Speech and what the new Government has planned initially when it comes to HR. These changes will necessitate staying updated with new legislation, revising company policies, and ensuring compliance with the upcoming regulations. We will ensure that our client’s businesses are prepared for these adjustments by engaging with and enhancing their HR strategies to meet the evolving needs of the workforce whilst working to best practice and the currently ever-changing Employment Law.”
For more detailed information, you can refer to the original announcements from the government and various news sources (moneyweekuk) (GOV.UK).
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