Major Shifts in UK Employment Law: A Recap on Labours New Policies

A few weeks have passed since the Labour government’s significant announcements in the King’s Speech, marking a transformative era for UK employment law. Here’s a recap of the key changes set to reshape the world of work.

1. Enhanced Redundancy Protections for New Mothers

One of the standout reforms is the enhanced protection for new mothers. The new legislation makes it unlawful to dismiss a woman who has had a baby within six months of her return to work, except in specific circumstances. This aims to provide greater job security for mothers re-entering the workforce​.

2. Ban on Exploitative Zero-Hours Contracts

Zero-hours contracts, long criticised for their unpredictability and lack of security, are set to be banned. This change seeks to ensure that workers have more stable and predictable working hours, thereby improving their financial stability and work-life balance​.

3. Abolition of Release-and-Rehire Practices

The controversial practice of 'release and rehire', where employers dismiss staff only to rehire them on less favourable terms, will be prohibited. This measure is intended to protect employees from unjust treatment and maintain fair employment terms.

4. Day-One Employment Rights

Under the new regime, key employment rights such as parental leave, sick pay, and protection from unfair dismissal will become effective from the first day of employment. Although protection from unfair dismissal will still be subject to a probationary period, this move is expected to significantly enhance job security from the outset.

5. Default Flexible Working

Flexible working will be established as the default from day one, allowing employees to better balance their professional and personal lives. This reform reflects a growing recognition of the importance of flexible work arrangements in today’s society.

6. Repeal of the Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Act

The Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Act, which allowed employers to mandate that some employees continue working during strikes, will be repealed. This change is designed to restore power to trade unions and enhance their ability to negotiate on behalf of workers.

7. Creation of the Fair Work Agency

A new state enforcement body, the Fair Work Agency, will be established to oversee the implementation and enforcement of these new employment rights. This agency aims to ensure that the reforms are effectively upheld and that workers are protected​.

8. The Equality (Race and Disability) Bill

The draft Equality (Race and Disability) Bill will extend equal pay protections to cover race and disability. Employers with 250 or more staff will be required to publish reports on ethnicity and disability pay gaps, promoting greater transparency and equality in the workplace.

9. Living Wage and Trade Union Reforms

The Labour government will overhaul the method for setting the minimum wage to ensure it reflects the cost of living. Additionally, trade union legislation will be updated to remove unnecessary restrictions, fostering a more conducive environment for collective bargaining​.

How Omega Can Assist Your Business

As specialists in recruiting for the Engineering, Tech, and Manufacturing sectors, Omega is uniquely positioned to help your business adapt to these changes. Here's how we can support you:

Expert Guidance: Our team stays abreast of all legislative changes to ensure your business remains compliant with the latest employment laws.

Tailored Recruitment Solutions: We provide bespoke, flexible recruitment services to help you find the right talent that meets your specific needs and aligns with the new regulatory environment.

Employee Retention Strategies: We assist in developing strategies that enhance employee satisfaction and retention, particularly in light of the new employment protections.

Contact us today on 01453 827333 or [email protected] to learn more about how Omega can help your business navigate these changes and thrive in the evolving employment landscape.