The recently introduced Employment Rights Bill by the UK Government aims to improve workers’ rights and strengthen economic growth
The new legislation, revealed within the first 100 days of the new government’s term, addresses several key issues affecting the modern workplace.
What does the new Employment Rights Bill mean?
A key part of the reform is the abolition of exploitative zero-hour contracts and unfair fire and rehire practices.
Under the new law, workers will have better job security with guaranteed hours if they consistently work regular shifts. This is intended to provide stability for workers while maintaining flexibility for businesses.
The introduction of the new bill also ensures that essential employment rights, such as protection from unfair dismissal and rights to bereavement, paternity, and parental leave are granted from day one of employment.
This is different from the previous requirement of a two-year qualifying period for certain protections making job security more accessible to all workers.
A fair workplace
The legislation also strengthens statutory sick pay by removing the lower earnings limit and eliminating waiting periods, ensuring that workers can quickly receive support when unable to work due to illness.
Aiming to create a fairer and more inclusive workplace, the bill mandates employers to implement action plans to address gender pay gaps and support employees during menopause. Protections against dismissal are also reinforced for pregnant women and new mothers, aiming to improve job retention and reduce recruitment costs for businesses.
Flexible working
Another arrangement focused on in the reform is flexibility in working arrangements. The legislation encourages flexible working as the default option where possible, aligning with modern lifestyles and potentially accommodating employee needs.
To implement these new rights effectively, the government plans to establish a Fair Work Agency. This Agency will
To enforce these new rights effectively, the government plans to establish a Fair Work Agency. This agency will join existing enforcement bodies to oversee compliance with employment laws, including ensuring proper payment of holiday pay and providing guidance to employers on meeting legal obligations.
The Employment Rights Bill represents the most significant upgrade to workers’ rights in a generation, designed to improve job security and working conditions and also to stimulate economic growth by promoting a more resilient and productive workforce.
