Your policy might be compliant.
Is your organisation?
The Employment Rights Act 2025 is changing UK employment law in stages through 2026 and 2027. A significant first wave of changes came into force in April 2026 and employers whose policies, payroll processes and manager guidance haven't been updated may already be out of date.
Already in force
Sick pay. Statutory Sick Pay is now paid from the first day of absence, and the lower earnings limit has gone. Payroll needs to reflect this.
Family leave. Paternity leave and unpaid parental leave are now day-one rights. Policies and handbooks that still mention a qualifying period are out of date.
Whistleblowing. Reporting sexual harassment is now a protected disclosure. Your whistleblowing policy should say so.
Collective redundancy. The maximum protective award for failing to consult has doubled, so getting consultation wrong now costs much more.
Enforcement. The new Fair Work Agency can now enforce rights such as holiday pay and Statutory Sick Pay directly.
Trade unions. Several trade union rules have changed, including on recognition and industrial action.
Changing now
Since 1 October: employees have six months, not three, to bring most tribunal claims.
From 30 October: employers must take all reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment, including harassment by clients and other third parties.
Coming next
From 1 January 2027: employees gain unfair dismissal rights after six months' service, and the cap on compensation is removed.
Through 2027: changes covering guaranteed hours, flexible working, bereavement leave, protection for pregnant employees and new mothers, and action plans on gender equality and menopause.
Updating your policies is the easy part. The real risk is whether managers follow the process, and whether you can prove it.
The ERA-Ready Review
We assess how ready your organisation actually is, across four areas: Documentation, Process, Manager Capability and Evidence.
You get:
A review of your contracts, handbook and key policies
A leadership discussion and two manager spot-check interviews
Sampling of your records to check good practice is happening
A RAG-rated report and prioritised action plan
A one-hour findings meeting to agree what to do first
Your report arrives within 15 working days of us receiving everything we need.
ERA-Ready: independently verified by The HR Agency
Organisations that meet the required standard receive an ERA-Ready certificate, valid for 6 months. We keep it short on purpose, because several changes due in 2027 are still being finalised.
ERA-Ready is independent assurance of your readiness on the date we assess you. It is not a guarantee of legal compliance or a substitute for legal advice.
Book your Review
Fixed fees, paid when you book:
Up to 20 employees: £750 + VAT
21 to 50 employees: £950 + VAT
51 to 100 employees: £1,200 + VAT
Over 100 employees:
Have a discount code? Enter it at checkout.
By booking, you agree to our Booking terms.