Preparing for the impact of the Employment Rights Bill: Action points for employers

As we await more news on the progress of the Employment Rights Bill, it is important to understand the impact of the long-anticipated changes and how to prepare for them. 

The Bill is now in its final parliamentary stage, known as ‘ping pong’, where the Lords propose amendments and the Commons respond. The remaining points of contention concern zero-hours contracts, strike ballot turnout thresholds, and proposed day-one rights to claim unfair dismissal. 

Once these issues are resolved, the Bill will pass into law, with changes introduced in phases. These phases are outlined on the tracker.  

As we await certainty on the progress of the Bill, people professionals should begin preparing now for upcoming changes. The proposed reforms are significant and organisations risk performance impacts if they do not plan ahead, particularly for the major changes expected by April 2026. 

To support you, we are releasing a series of videos featuring senior professionals who will provide clear, expert guidance to help you translate new requirements into practical actions. This will be valuable whether you work in an SME with limited capacity to monitor every development or in a larger organisation with teams assigned to planning for implementation. 

Drawing on extensive experience supporting people practice, Jill Bottomley FCIPD outlines the priority steps you can take now to prepare for the changes outlined in the Bill, helping you stay ahead of risk, maintain compliance, and prepare your organisation for a smooth transition.