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Summer is ending… but major HR changes are just beginning

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The summer holidays are almost over, the children are heading back to school, and for many small businesses it’s time to get back into the rhythm of normal working life. Unfortunately, while you’re focusing on clients, sales and growing your business, the Employment Rights Act 2025 continues to introduce significant changes that employers need to […]

Employment Rights Act 2025 – The Next Wave of Changes

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The Employment Rights Act 2025 continues to reshape the workplace, with new provisions being introduced in phases throughout the year. If you haven’t reviewed your employment documentation recently, now is the time. Changes Already in Force Several important changes have already been implemented, including: By now, employers should have: If you’re unsure whether your business […]

The Employment Rights Act 2025 – Is Your Business Ready?

workplace

The Employment Rights Act 2025 is bringing the biggest changes to employment law in years. The new rules are being introduced in stages from January 2026 through to mid 2027, and almost every employer will need to review the way they manage their people. If you employ staff, now is the time to make sure […]

Although the new rights will be in force from 1st January 2027

Megaphone representing workplace whistleblowing

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 […]

Sexual Harassment at Work: Why Every SME Needs to Act Now

HR manager learning to handle workplace bullying

Many business owners believe sexual harassment is something that only happens in large organisations. Unfortunately, that assumption can leave smaller businesses exposed to significant legal and financial risk. The Employment Rights Act (ERA) 2025 strengthens employer responsibilities and requires organisations to take proactive steps to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace. This includes harassment carried […]

Trade Unions Are Coming Back onto the SME Agenda – Are You Ready for the October 2026 Changes?

do you know the hm gov right to work checks

Many small business owners assume trade union legislation only affects large manufacturers, public sector organisations or businesses with hundreds of employees. From 1 October 2026, that assumption could become an expensive mistake. The Employment Rights Act (ERA) 2025 introduces several new trade union rights which will affect employers of all sizes, including SMEs that have […]

World Cup Fever

time off

Why is this significant for employers? England’s campaign starts soon history has shown that major sporting events can disrupt working patterns. Depending how the previous games have gone it could be a crucial match or a non- event  (don’t be too pessimistic ) and consideration needs to be given as to how this could affect your […]

World Cup Fever

time off

Why is this significant for employers? England’s campaign starts soon history has shown that major sporting events can disrupt working patterns. Depending how the previous games have gone it could be a crucial match or a non- event  (don’t be too pessimistic ) and consideration needs to be given as to how this could affect your […]

ACAS early conciliation extended to 12 weeks

HR manager reviewing ACAS early conciliation extension rules

From 1 December, the Acas Early Conciliation period is being extended from 6 weeks to 12 weeks. What does this mean? When an employee is considering making an Employment Tribunal claim, they must first notify Acas. During this Acas Early Conciliation process, the time limit to bring a claim is paused. The longer conciliation period […]

Now is the time to update your staff employment contracts

Employer reviewing an employment status check document

I was recently approached by a client who had failed to pass on the contract I had prepared to his employee. The employer, because he had just put the prepared contract in the drawer and not asked the employee to sign it, was unaware that the employee was entitled to paid holiday and did have […]