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Do You Know What's Changing?

Upcoming Employee Rights & HR Changes

 

What Small Businesses Need to Know

Over the next few months, the UK is introducing a series of important updates to employment law as part of the Employment Rights Bill, one of the biggest shifts in workplace legislation in recent years.

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For small businesses and startups, these changes are designed to strengthen employee protections, but they also mean it’s time to review your HR policies, contracts, and onboarding processes to stay compliant and reduce risk.

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What’s Changing

  • Day-one rights for employees – Certain protections, such as family leave and unfair dismissal rights, will soon apply from the first day of employment. This means contracts and probation policies may need updating.

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  • Expanded access to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) – Waiting days and earning thresholds are likely to change, making more employees eligible for sick pay from day one.

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  • Improved rights for zero-hours and flexible workers – Employees will have the right to request predictable working hours and fair notice for shifts.

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  • Stronger equality and workplace protection duties – Employers will have greater responsibilities to prevent harassment and support inclusion, including considerations around menopause and wellbeing.

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  • More transparency and accountability – Updated requirements for policies, documentation, and communication with staff are expected to come into effect over the coming year.

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How to Prepare

  • Review your contracts and handbooks – Ensure wording reflects new entitlements and removes outdated terms.

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  • Update policies and templates – Especially those related to sickness, flexible working, and family leave.

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  • Train your managers – Make sure they understand new rights and how to handle requests consistently.

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  • Communicate with your team – Let employees know you’re proactive and supportive of these positive workplace changes.

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Stay Ahead with U-HR

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At U-HR, we help startups and small businesses stay compliant and confident with easy-to-use HR templates, practical advice, and on-demand support.


We’ll make sure your documents and policies are up to date and your business is ready for the changes ahead, so you can focus on growing your team, not worrying about the fine print.

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📩 Get in touch today to review your HR documents or book a compliance check - info@U-HR.co.uk

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