United Kingdom Employment Law Changes

The United Kingdom is implementing significant changes to its employment laws, primarily through the Employment Rights Act, effective April 6, 2026. Key modifications include making Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) payable from the first day of absence and extending its eligibility to all employees regardless of earnings, with the rate set at 80% of average weekly earnings or a flat weekly rate, whichever is lower. Minimum hourly pay rates will also increase. Additionally, paternity leave and unpaid parental leave will become 'Day One' rights. Protections against unfair dismissal will be strengthened, requiring only six months of employment instead of two years. The act will also make 'fire and rehire' practices more difficult and expand obligations regarding sexual harassment prevention. The Trades Union Congress estimates that approximately 4.7 million women, especially low-paid workers, will benefit from these changes. United Kingdom — Acas, a conciliation service, conducted a study indicating that sick pay and unfair dismissal protections are expected to have the most substantial impact on both employers and employees.