Further to our most recent e-brief on some of the proposed changes to the Employment Rights Bill, we can confirm that, as of 18 December, this Bill received Royal Assent and officially became law. This landmark legislation introduces significant reforms across all areas of employment law, including unfair dismissal rights, statutory sick pay, common employment practices, and enhanced protections for employees and agency workers nationwide.

The Employment Rights Act 2025 will implement these changes throughout 2026–2027 in phases. With consultations ongoing, and a number of the provisions remaining subject to secondary legislation, many of the finer details remain to be finalised. Over the coming months, we will be monitoring these developments closely and will provide regular updates as these implementation dates and specifics are confirmed.

If you have any questions, we’re here to help, get in touch with Simon Shepherd.

In the meantime, all of us here at Schofield Sweeney wish you all a wonderful holiday season and a very happy new year.