The Employment Rights Bill officially became law on 18th December 2025, but before you panic, most changes won’t hit overnight. You’ve got time to prepare here are the highlights
So, what’s changing and when?
- Right now (Dec 2025)
The Bill is live, and the first tweaks are around strikes: minimum service rules are gone, and protections for staff taking industrial action are stronger. If you’ve got unionised employees, even just a few, start reviewing your policies.
- Early 2026 (Feb onwards)
More strike-related changes kick in: dismissal for industrial action becomes automatically unfair, notice periods for ballots shorten, and picket supervisor rules disappear. For most charities, this means updating your risk plans and making sure managers know the new rules.
- April 2026
This is the big milestone:
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- Day-one rights for paternity and unpaid parental leave
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- Statutory Sick Pay from day one (and no lower earnings limit)
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- Whistleblowing protections and union recognition processes get easier
If you’re a small voluntary organisation, this is the time to update policies and budget for extra sick pay.
- October 2026
Say goodbye to “fire & rehire” for core terms like pay and hours. Plus, new duties to prevent sexual harassment—including from third parties—come into play. Start reviewing contracts and safeguarding policies well before then.
- 2027 and beyond
More gradual changes:
- Six-month qualifying period for unfair dismissal claim
- Stronger rights for zero-hours and agency workers (guaranteed hours, notice for shifts, compensation for cancellations)
- Extended bereavement leave, including pregnancy loss
These will need longer-term planning, especially if you rely on flexible or casual staff.
What does this mean for voluntary sector employers? No need to panic, just plan. Here’s your action list:
- Map these dates against your current policies
- Train managers and trustees so they’re ready
- Budget for sick pay and leave changes
- Keep an eye on ACAS updates and government guidance
- Follow the E-portal on social media for continued updates and resources including dedicated HR content and a PolicyBot in the New Year.
