March 2025 Newsletter: Key Updates on Employment Rights Bill & New Legal Services from KLG

We hope you’re having a great start to March! This month, we’re covering key employment law updates and introducing new services to support your business.

Employment Rights Bill – Key Amendments & Implications

The UK government has introduced significant amendments to the Employment Rights Bill. Here’s what employers need to know:

1. Unfair Dismissal Protections

Employees may soon gain a “day one” right to claim unfair dismissal, replacing the current two-year qualifying period. A proposed nine-month initial period will allow simplified dismissal procedures before full protection applies. This is still under consultation.

2. Guaranteed Hours & Shift Notice for Agency Workers

The amendments extend guaranteed hours rights to agency workers on zero-hours or low-hours contracts. Employers must now provide reasonable shift notice, and compensation will be mandatory for last-minute cancellations.

3. Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) Reforms

The proposed reforms include:
✔ SSP payable from day one, removing the four-day waiting period.
✔ Employees earning below the lower earnings limit to receive 80% of their average weekly earnings.

4. Fire and Rehire Penalties

The Bill will prohibit firing employees only to rehire them on less favourable terms. Penalties for non-compliance will increase from 90 to 180 days’ pay.

5. Bereavement Leave for Miscarriage

The Bill may introduce two weeks of bereavement leave for parents who experience a miscarriage before 24 weeks.

These amendments are subject to Parliamentary approval and could change further. Employers should monitor updates and adjust employment contracts, shift policies, and dismissal procedures accordingly.

New Services at KLG

1. Sexual Harassment Prevention Training – Now Available at KLG

KLG now offers workplace sexual harassment prevention training to help businesses create a safer, more inclusive environment while ensuring legal compliance.

📩 Contact us today to book a session.

2. B2B Terms & Commercial Contract Services – Now Available at KLG

We now provide Business-to-Business (B2B) terms and commercial contract services, including supplier agreements, service contracts, and other legal support tailored to your business needs.

🔗 Learn more: Commercial Contracts Lawyers – KLG Law

Key Reminders for Businesses

National Minimum Wage Increase – April 2025

From 1st April 2025, the National Minimum Wage will increase:

✔ Ages 21 and over: £12.21 per hour
✔ Ages 18-20: £10.00 per hour
✔ Ages 16-17 & apprentices: £7.55 per hour

Ensure payroll adjustments are made in advance to remain compliant.

Summary of Key Employment Law Updates

✔ Unfair Dismissal Protections – Potential “day one” right for unfair dismissal claims, with a proposed nine-month qualifying period. ✔ Guaranteed Hours for Agency Workers – Employers may need to offer guaranteed hours and provide reasonable shift notice. ✔ Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) – Removal of the four-day waiting period, making SSP payable from day one. ✔ Fire and Rehire Penalties – Increased penalties up to 180 days’ pay for non-compliance. ✔ Bereavement Leave for Miscarriage – Possible two weeks of leave for parents who experience a miscarriage before 24 weeks.

These updates reflect the Government’s focus on fairer workplace practices. Businesses should stay informed and update HR policies, employment contracts, and compliance procedures accordingly.

Need Expert HR & Legal Guidance?

We’re here to help. Get in touch for expert support on employment law, HR policies, and workplace compliance.

📩 Website: https://klglaw.co.uk
📞 Phone: 0330 221 0684