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Government Unveils Phased Rollout of Workers’ Rights Reforms With Key Measures Delayed to 2027

Staggered schedule balances business concerns over hiring pressures by fast-tracking mid-tier protections next year with core rights deferred to allow firms time to adjust.

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The right to work from home is among the reforms that have been pushed back
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Overview

  • The Employment Rights Bill will, upon enactment, immediately repeal minimum service levels in the Trade Union Act and restore full strike protections.
  • In April 2026 the Fair Work Agency will launch, sick pay waiting periods will be removed, the lower earnings threshold will be scrapped, day-one paternity and parental leave will begin, and unions will need only 2% workforce membership to gain recognition.
  • In October 2026 employers will face a ban on fire-and-rehire tactics and new legal duties to prevent sexual harassment including third-party conduct.
  • Day-one unfair dismissal rights, default flexible working and a ban on zero-hours contracts are slated for implementation in 2027 after warnings that faster rollouts could stifle hiring and investment.
  • Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said the phased approach provides the clarity companies need to plan and invest while strengthening workplace protections.