As well as increases to minimum wages, as part of the Employment Rights Act, significant employment law changes have come into effect to support employees:
- Statutory Sick Pay: Previously, there was a three day waiting period, but SSP is now payable from the first day of an employee’s absence, with no minimum earning threshold.
- Family leave: From the first day in their new job, employees are now entitled to Paternity Leave and Unpaid Parental Leave. Previously, there was a minimal service requirement.
- Bereaved Partner’s Paternity Leave: Following the death of a child’s mother or primary adopter, up to 52 weeks of unpaid leave can be taken.
- Collective redundancy penalties for employers: Not meeting consultation requirements could result in the employee being compensated with 180 days’ full pay. Previously, this was up to 90 days.
- Whistleblowing: There is now protection for workers who report sexual harassment against them.
- Holiday records: Employers are now required to keep records of employees’ holiday pay and annual leave. These records need to be retained for 6 years.