- Employment Law Updates
UK Employment Law Updates in 2026
Stay ahead with the latest employment law updates. From HR policies to workplace rights and employee protections, laws are continuously being updated and changed to suit the evolving landscape of the modern workplace.
With the support of our employment law experts, get to know the updates that will impact your business in 2026.
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Changes to industrial action rules from 18 February 2026
From 18 February 2026, employers will see significant changes to the rules around industrial action and trade union activity.
Employees dismissed for taking part in industrial action will gain increased protection. Any dismissal linked to industrial action will be classed as automatically unfair, removing the current 12-week limit for bringing an unfair dismissal claim.
Trade union rules will also change on the same date, including removing picket supervisors, reducing the notice required given by unions of industrial action, and simplifying ballot notices.
Paternity and parental leave changes
From 6th April 2026, paterntiy and parental leave changes will come into effect. However, the UK government have announced that there will be a transitional period. This will reduce the notice period for paternity leave to 28 days to allow those who will become newly eligible to access the entitlement from the 6th April.
It's important to note that employees will be able to give notice from 18th February 2026 in anticipation of becoming newly eligible to take paternity/parental leave from 6th April 2026.
For those who are already eligible, this notice period will not change.
Ahead of these changes, it is essential that you review your HR policies and procedures to align with the new day one rights.
Employment Rights Act 2025 is here!
Introduced in October 2024, the major shake-up to employment rights in the UK has now been passed through parliament. With key changes to be implemented over the next two years, including:
- Day one rights for employees such as SSP and family leave rights
- A new employment law enforcement agency
- Major changes to the rights of workers on zero-hours contracts
- Flexible working will become a "default" for workers
Prepare for minimum wage increases
Thanks to updates from the Autumn Budget, we now know the new wage standards for April 2026 onwards.
How your business can stay ahead
As with any changes to pay, it is essential to get your payroll in order. This means adjusting hourly rates for employees currently receieving the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage. With the support of a CIPP qualified payroll team, you don't have to worry about payroll headaches when the new wage standards come into effect.
Immigration updates for workers from overseas
Changes to immigration laws will affect employers who wish to hire employees from abroad.
From December 16th 2025 the ISC is increasing by 32%. This means higher costs for employers sponsoring workers under the Skilled Worker or the Senior or Specialist Worker route.
Starting January 2026, English language requirements will also change, increasing the requirement to a level B2, equivalent to A-Level.
It's important to stay aware of changes to employment law and immigration requirements in the UK. As an employer you have a responsibility to ensure any job applicants you hire have a right to work in the UK.
Get the advice you need
Stay compliant with employment laws in the UK with the support of HR experts.
How can you stay ahead?
Get advice from HR experts
With the support of employment law experts on your side, you can get the latest and most accurate information you need to be HR compliant.
With BrightAdvice, a team of employment and HR experts can offer you round-the-clock advice for whenever you may need it.
From addressing staffing concerns to answering your queries about the latest updates direct from the UK government—we’re on your side.
Align HR processes with employment laws
By leveraging technology, you can enhance and streamline your processes. Helping you to reduce the risks of compliance issues and out of date HR documentation.
Update policy documents and contracts
Your HR policies, documents and employment contracts are essential pieces of information helping you navigate and ensure compliance with employment laws.
HR never sleeps
Can't keep up with ever-evolving employment laws? Stay ahead of the curve with 24/7 expert support from our HR advice line.
Download our Employment Rights Act 2025 Roadmap
Thursday, December 18, 2025
The Employment Rights Act 2025 Guide for business owners
With the Employment Rights Bill receiving royal assent in December 2025, it is time to get ready for the implementation of the Employment Rights Act 2025 with our downloadable action plan. Introducing 28 key reforms and changing the way many workplaces currently operate, this is essential information for all businesses in the UK.
Prepare your business for some of the biggest changes to employment law in the UK in the last decade and stay HR compliant.
Stay up to date with BrightHR
Get the latest on legislation changes and new employment laws in the UK from our HR experts.