A brief description of the major new employment laws (UK, 2024).
Seven major new or significantly revised Acts which will promote flexibility, equality and support for carers.
The Flexible Working (Amendment) Regulations
These are set to introduce further provisions to support employees seeking alternative work schedules. They aim to enhance work-life balance and promote employee well-being by granting individuals more control over their working hours and location
The Carers Leave Act
This will grant any worker who says they have caring responsibilities without any requirement of evidence to request one weeks’ unpaid leave per year from day one of employment.
Statutory Pay Rate Changes
These were all to be increased by approximately 10% and in addition the top rate will apply to all employees over the age of 21.
Protection from Redundancy (Pregnancy and Family Leave) Act
Extends protection to 18 months post birth for returners from: Maternity leave, Adoption leave and Shared Parental Leave.
Employment Rights (Amendment) Regulations
These introduce various changes to enhance the rights of employees in areas such as termination procedures, grievance handling and unfair treatment. It also increases the requirements for consultation in a TUPE situation, but does not become enforceable until July.
Workers (Predictable Terms and Conditions) Act
Gives employees with 26 weeks continuous service the statutory right to request a predictable work pattern including days and hours, so less flexibility for Employers. It also applies to Agency workers. The employer must consider the request and has limited legal reasons to reject the claim. All flexible working requests can be made twice a year rather than once. Comes into effect September.
The Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality 2010) Act
This is being beefed up and is effective from October, employers will need to comply with a new duty to take ‘reasonable steps’ to prevent sexual harassment of employees. Under the amendment tribunals will have the power to increase compensation by up to 25 per cent if it finds that an employer has breached this duty.
If you have any questions on these changes please do not hesitate to call us on 01202 611033. The first 30 minutes are free.
Chris Wilkinson
Expert HR Solutions
