UK Employment Law Changes – Key Dates (2026–2027)
February 2026
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Changes to trade union and industrial action rules begin
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Repeal of parts of previous legislation affecting union processes (tuc.org.uk)
1 April 2026
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National Minimum & Living Wage increases take effect
April 2026 (Key Wave of Changes)
This is the biggest update period for employers
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Statutory Sick Pay (SSP):
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Paid from day one (no waiting period)
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No lower earnings limit (more employees qualify)
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Day-one rights introduced:
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Paternity leave
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Unpaid parental leave
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New bereavement-related leave rights
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Stronger redundancy protections (higher penalties for non-compliance)
6–7 April 2026 (Additional Changes)
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Protective award for redundancy consultation doubles
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Fair Work Agency established (new enforcement body)
August 2026 (Expected)
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Introduction of electronic and workplace balloting for unions (delayed from April)
Late 2026 (Under Consultation)
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Further employment reforms expected (details still being finalised)
2027 (Planned Future Changes)
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Zero-hours contract reforms (right to guaranteed hours)
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Compensation for cancelled shifts
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Stronger flexible working rules
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Restrictions on “fire and rehire” practices (Acas)
Simple Summary
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Feb 2026: Union law changes begin
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April 2026: Major HR changes (SSP, day-one rights, redundancy rules)
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Aug 2026: Union voting changes
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2027: Bigger structural reforms (contracts, flexibility, shift protections)
