2026 Employment Law Updates: What You Need to Know

As we head into April, employment law in the UK is changing faster than ever. Staying ahead isn’t just about compliance - it’s about protecting your business, supporting your team and reducing risk.

If you’re a retainer client with us, updates to your policies, contracts and handbooks are already part of your package. We make sure you’re ready for changes before they take effect, so you can focus on running your business.

Here’s what’s coming up:

Changes from January to March 2026

Enhanced DBS Checks for Self-Employed Contractors

• New rules under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 now allow enhanced DBS checks for self-employed contractors.

• Essential for roles working with vulnerable adults or children.

  
  

Stronger Trade Union Rights

• Protection against dismissal for taking part in protected industrial action is now unlimited - no more 12 week cap.

• Employers need to understand these expanded rights carefully.

  
  

Key Reforms from April 2026

National Minimum Wage Increase

• The National Living Wage for employees aged 21+ rises to £12.71 an hour.

• Other statutory rates also change based on age and worker category.

  
  

Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) Reform

• SSP will now be paid from day one of absence rather than day four.

• Rate is the lower of 80% of weekly earnings or the flat rate, across Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

  
  

Parental & Paternity Leave from Day One

• Both Parental and Paternity Leave are now day one rights, removing previous service requirements.

• Bereaved Partner’s Paternity Leave: Eligible partners can take up to 52 weeks unpaid leave if the mother or primary adopter dies within a child’s first year.

  
  

Sexual Harassment Whistleblowing Protection

• Workers are now fully protected from detriment or dismissal when reporting sexual harassment.

• Any dismissal related to reporting is automatically unfair, with no cap on compensation.

  
  

Fair Work Agency Launch

• From 7th April, the Fair Work Agency consolidates government enforcement bodies.

• Provides advice to employers and employees and has statutory powers to take enforcement action or bring tribunal claims.

  
  

Increased Penalties for Inform & Consult Failures

• Fines for failing to inform and consult employees about collective redundancies increase significantly - up to 180 days’ pay per affected employee, plus 25% uplift.

  
  

Need to Update Your HR Policies?

Your HR documents need to be legally watertight for 2026. Even if you’re not a retainer client, we can help.

• Pre-written, fully updated policy templates are available for purchase.

• Quickly and confidently bring your handbooks and contracts in line with the latest legal requirements.

  
  

Get in touch today to make sure your business is ready for a compliant and successful 2026.