As most people are aware currently  employees need 2 years completed service including notice periods before they can bring a claim for unfair dismissal. The employment relations Act 2025 has changed  this and it is now law that employees only need 6 months service before they can bring a claim. You should be aware although the new rights will be in force from 1st January 2027, the practical impact begins on 1st July 2026. Any employee hired on or after this date may have six months’ service by January 2027 and therefore gain ordinary unfair dismissal protection automatically. Want to know more especially how to manage probation periods against this change contact me at https://www.ukemploymentlawadvice.co.uk/contact