The Government has unveiled new guidance to help employers prepare for major changes to employment law, as ministers seek to fix what they describe as a “broken labour market” while supporting business growth.
The guidance follows the passing of the Employment Rights Act 2025, which will introduce a series of reforms from April aimed at establishing a fairer baseline of workplace protections. Ministers argue the changes reflect practices already adopted by many employers and will deliver long-term productivity and staff retention benefits.
As part of the rollout, the Government has launched a new online hub, providing free, practical support for the UK’s estimated 1.4 million employers. The site includes clear timelines, summaries of upcoming changes, actions businesses need to take, and links to further guidance.
From April, statutory sick pay will become payable from the first day of sickness absence, while new “day one” rights will be introduced for parental leave and paternity leave. Further reforms will be phased in gradually over a two-year period, a move the Government says is designed to give employers time to adapt and implement changes correctly.
Employment Rights Minister Kate Dearden said the reforms were central to the Government’s economic strategy.
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