On 10 October, the UK Government introduced its new Employment Rights Bill, marking the most significant overhaul of UK employment law in decades. Ministers assert that the proposals will create fairer workplaces and better address modern needs for both workers and employers, while also fostering economic growth.
The Construction Industry Collective Voice (CICV) has issued a briefing document outlining the key changes:
Day One Protection
Employees will be protected from unfair dismissal, with employers still able to operate probationary periods. They will also be entitled to paternity, parental, and bereavement leave from their first day on the job, eliminating the current two-year waiting period.
Zero-Hour Contracts
The Bill addresses exploitative zero-hour contracts, allowing workers on regular hours to request guaranteed hours while preserving flexibility for those who prefer it.
Fire and Rehire
The Bill aims to end ‘fire and rehire’ and ‘fire and replace’ practices, preventing companies from re-hiring employees on worse terms.
Statutory Sick Pay
Sick pay eligibility will be expanded by eliminating the lower earnings threshold and removing the waiting period before it begins.
Fair Pay
The Government has revised the Low Pay Commission’s remit to consider the cost of living when recommending the National Minimum Wage rate. This Bill will also remove age bands, ensuring that every working adult is entitled to the same minimum wage, regardless of age.
Flexible Working
Flexible working will become the default, unless employers can show why it is not practical for their business.
Pregnancy
Protections for pregnant women and new mothers returning to work will be strengthened, specifically safeguarding them from dismissal during pregnancy, while on maternity leave, and for six months after returning to work.
Pay Disparities Between Men and Women
Large employers will be required to produce action plans to address pay gaps between men and women.
Trade Union Rights
All restrictions on trade unions introduced by the previous Conservative administrations over the past 14 years will be repealed, and a series of new powers will be granted.
For a more detailed look at the changes our Associate Service Provider Member Citation’s latest guide, ‘The Employment Rights Bill: Your ultimate guide to the 28 changes‘, is designed to help you understand these changes so you can successfully adapt your business.