Are you prepared?
The Employment Rights Act 2025 introduces sweeping reforms that represent the most significant enhancement to workers’ rights in a generation, bringing major changes for every employer.
We’re here for you
There is a lot to keep up with – both in terms of the substance of the changes and when they are going to take effect.
You need a clear understanding of how these developments will impact on your organisation so that you can plan for and take steps to minimise risk.
In the following pages, you’ll find details about the changes and how we can guide and support you as you navigate your way through this complex piece of legislation.
Save it in your favourites and we’ll keep it updated with the developments as they happen.
Elaine Huttley
National Head of Employment
T: 44 (0)121 214 5434 M: +44 (0)7850 096 907 E: elaine.huttley@irwinmitchell.com
Highlights
In the lead-up to the general election in July 2024, the Labour party published its ‘Plan to Make Work Pay.’ This set out its plans for employment law reform.
Fast forward to October 2024 and the Labour government put its flagship policy – the Employment Rights Bill before parliament. It received Royal Assent on 18 December 2025.
The changes are wide-ranging and will impact each stage of the employment lifecycle, from recruitment right the way through to dismissal. It will affect each and every employer.
The government has already started to publish consultations and additional guidance which will explain how some of the changes will work. There is a lot to take in, and the measures will require planning ahead.
The good news is that the changes will not all come in at once. There will be a staged implementation with some measures not taking effect until 2027. Much of the detail is yet to come – think of it as the bones upon which secondary legislation will flesh out.
We’re here to do the heavy thinking for you.
We’re monitoring progress carefully. This guidance will help you keep on track and allow you to prioritise what steps you should take to comply with the law and manage its impact on your organisation.
At a glance, the timetable looks likes this (updated February 2026):
There is a lot to keep up with – both in terms of the substance of the changes and their implementation timelines. Gaining a clear understanding of these developments and their implications will be essential to ensure your organisation adopts the necessary measures smoothly and effectively.
In the following pages, you’ll find details about the changes and how we’re here to guide and support you throughout.
Save it in your favourites and we’ll keep it updated with the developments as they happen.
Elaine Huttley
National Head of Employment
T: 44 (0)121 214 5434 M: +44 (0)7850 096 907 E: elaine.huttley@irwinmitchell.com