The government has published an “implementation roadmap”, setting out when the changes to employment law are likely to be implemented.
In our previous blog, we noted how frustrating it is to see headline grabbing announcements, only to find out the details aren’t yet known, so you can’t plan ahead and prepare.
Welcome direction
So this new roadmap now provides some welcome direction and is a first step towards helping businesses understand what they will need to do and when, giving you time to prepare.
A “day 1” right to claim unfair dismissal
Perhaps the biggest change is a “day 1” right to claim unfair dismissal, which could change the way some companies deal with recruitment and termination of staff. The timeline confirms that such changes will not be introduced until 2027.
Indicative timetable
Below is a table summarising some relevant dates from the roadmap.
| DATE | MEASURE |
| April 2026 | “Day 1” right to take paternity leave and unpaid parental leave Fair Work Agency (a new enforcement body for a range of employment rights) established Right to receive increased compensation for failure to consult collectively on redundancy Lower earnings limit and waiting period for statutory sick pay removed Enhanced whistleblowing protections Trade union recognition simplified. |
| October 2026 | Restrictions on “fire and re-hire” Employer liability for third party harassment Employers required to take ‘all reasonable steps’ to prevent sexual harassment Extension to time limit for making employment tribunal claims from 3 to 6 months |
| 2027 | Enhanced dismissal protections for pregnant women and new mothers The right to claim unfair dismissal from ‘day one’ Protections for zero-hours workers |
| Improving access to flexible working | |
| Gender pay gap and menopause action plans (introduced on a voluntary basis in April 2026) |
Although the roadmap provides a proposed timeline outlining when measures are likely to be implemented, this could still change, depending on the progress of the legislation through Parliament.
The government promises clear and comprehensive guidance in advance of these dates to help organisations navigate the changes, so watch this space.
Further information
Can we help you?
We can help you review and amend your people policies and processes and help implement practical changes to ensure you remain compliant and mitigate legal risk. We also offer training to help you get to grips with new legal requirements.
