Statutory sick pay, day one paternity leave and unpaid parental leave, and simplifying the trade union recognition process, will come into effect in April 2026 under the first stage of the Employment Rights Bill.

Employment tribunal time limits will take effect in October 2026 as will banning unscrupulous fire and rehire practices, and strengthening trade unions’ right of access.

However, there will be longer for employers to prepare for the major changes to unfair dismissal and zero hour contracts, which will not come into force until 2027. Likewise a requirement for employers to meet gender pay gap action plans will come later in the cycle.