Upcoming Employment Law Changes in the UK | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds
As the landscape of employment law continually evolves, UK businesses must stay informed about forthcoming changes to ensure compliance and maintain a fair and productive workplace. Here are some key legislative changes on the horizon and practical steps businesses can take to prepare.
Enhanced Flexible Working Rights
What’s Changing? The UK Government plans to introduce enhanced rights for flexible working, including making it a default right for employees to request flexible working from day one of employment. This change aims to promote work-life balance and accommodate diverse employee needs.
How to Prepare:
- Review Policies: Update your flexible working policy to reflect the new legislation.
- Training: Train managers on handling flexible working requests fairly and consistently.
- Communication: Clearly communicate the changes to all employees, outlining the process for making requests.
Extended Redundancy Protection for Pregnant Employees and New Parents
What’s Changing? Redundancy protection is being extended for pregnant employees and those returning from maternity, adoption, or shared parental leave. This aims to prevent discrimination and provide job security during these critical times.
How to Prepare:
- Policy Updates: Amend your redundancy policy to include extended protection periods.
- Manager Training: Ensure managers understand the new protections and handle redundancies sensitively and legally.
- Support Systems: Provide support and guidance for employees transitioning back to work after parental leave.
New Statutory Code on “Fire and Rehire”
What’s Changing? A statutory Code of Practice on Dismissal and Re-engagement (commonly known as “fire and rehire”) is being introduced to ensure that changes to employment terms are fair and transparent. This code will provide guidelines on conducting consultations and negotiations.
How to Prepare:
- Policy Review: Evaluate your current practices related to contract changes and ensure they align with the new code.
- Consultation Procedures: Develop robust consultation procedures to engage with employees meaningfully.
- Documentation: Keep thorough records of all consultations and negotiations to demonstrate compliance.
Increase in Statutory Payments and Tribunal Awards
What’s Changing? From April 2024, the limits on various statutory payments and tribunal awards are set to increase. The maximum compensatory award for unfair dismissal and the limit on weekly pay for calculating redundancy pay are among the changes.
How to Prepare:
- Budget Adjustments: Review and adjust your budget to accommodate the increased potential liabilities.
- HR Systems Update: Ensure your payroll and HR systems are updated to reflect the new statutory limits.
- Employee Awareness: Inform employees about the changes to statutory payments and their rights.
Revised Vento Bands for Discrimination Claims
What’s Changing? The Vento bands, which determine compensation for injury to feelings in discrimination cases, have been revised. The updated bands reflect inflation and the need for fair compensation.
How to Prepare:
- Training: Train HR and management teams on the implications of the revised Vento bands.
- Policy Update: Update your anti-discrimination policies to reinforce a commitment to fair treatment and equality.
- Proactive Measures: Implement proactive measures to prevent discrimination and handle complaints effectively.
Our HR comment:
Upcoming Employment Law Changes in the UK | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds
Matthew Chilcott, Owner of Consensus HR comments: “Staying ahead of employment law changes is crucial for UK businesses to avoid legal pitfalls and foster a supportive work environment. By proactively preparing for these upcoming changes, businesses can ensure compliance, enhance employee satisfaction, and maintain a positive organisational culture. If you need tailored advice and support, consider partnering with HR experts like Consensus HR to navigate these changes effectively.
For more information on how Consensus HR can support your business, contact us today.”
Practical Steps for Businesses:
- Stay Informed: Regularly check for updates on employment law changes from reliable sources such as government websites and legal advisories.
- Consult Professionals: Engage with HR and legal experts to ensure your policies and practices are compliant with the latest legislation.
- Employee Training: Provide ongoing training for employees and managers on new laws and best practices.
- Review and Update Policies: Conduct a comprehensive review of all HR policies and procedures, making necessary updates to align with new regulations.
- Communication: Maintain open lines of communication with employees, keeping them informed about changes and how they may be affected.
To view more about our range of HR & Employment Law Services
Are you concerned about keeping your business up to date with Employment Law changes?
Your Outsourced Human Resources (HR) Department.
For further information on any of the HR subjects we provide, please click the heading below:
