News
The End of the Safe Probationary Period: What Employers Need to Know Before 2027
The Employment Rights Actl is expected to transform how employers manage probation periods from 2027. One of the most significant changes is the planned introduction of day-one protection against unfair dismissal, replacing the current requirement for two years' service. Many employers still rely on probation periods as a relatively low-risk way to assess new hires. Once the new rules take effect, that approach will become far more difficult to justify. Why Employers Are Talking About the "Safe Probationary Period" Under current UK employment law, employees generally need two years' continuous service before they can bring an ordinary unfair dismissal claim. [...]
The SSP Reform: Is Your Sick Pay Policy Now Outdated?
The UK’s SSP reform changes how employers manage sickness absence, payroll, and HR documentation. Many contracts and sick leave policies still reference unpaid waiting days, which no longer align with UK employment law. This guide explains what changed, where businesses face risk, and how employers can prepare properly. What Is Changing Under the SSP Reform? The biggest proposed change under the SSP reform is removing the waiting days before employees qualify for Statutory Sick Pay. Traditionally, many businesses only paid SSP after the first three qualifying sick days. The reform changes that position and increase pressure on employers to record [...]
Fair Work Agency Inspections Are Here: Is Your Business Ready?
The Fair Work Agency officially launched on 7 April 2026 and brings stronger workplace enforcement across the UK. Employers now face greater scrutiny around payroll, Statutory Sick Pay, holiday pay, and employee records. This guide explains what inspections may involve, where businesses face the biggest risks, and how HR consultancy support helps employers prepare. What Is the New Fair Work Agency? The new Fair Work Agency expands workplace enforcement powers across the UK. Its role goes beyond minimum wage compliance, focusing on broader enforcement of employment law and workplace standards. The agency is expected to investigate: National Minimum Wage compliance [...]
Is Your Employee Handbook Up to Date? Key Policies to Review Now
Most employee handbooks are outdated. If yours hasn’t been reviewed in the last 12 months, it’s likely missing key legal updates. That puts your business at risk. Employers in Ireland and the UK should audit their handbooks now to ensure compliance and protect themselves from future claims. Handbooks are not static documents. Legal obligations shift. Workplaces evolve. What was acceptable two years ago may now expose your organisation to tribunal claims or WRC penalties. A clear and current handbook gives managers confidence, supports fair decision-making, and clearly communicates to employees exactly where they stand. This article outlines the key employment [...]
Free Taster Briefing (NI and UK) – Join HR Team’s Free Webinar on 24th February 2025
As Northern Ireland and the UK move forward with significant updates in employment legislation, it’s essential for employers to stay informed and compliant. With the introduction of the Employment Rights Bill in the UK and the Good Jobs Employment Rights Bill Consultation in Northern Ireland, employers need to be prepared for the upcoming regulatory shifts. It will be imperative for businesses of all sizes and across all industries to stay informed and adapt proactively to manage their workforce. HR Team is here to help you navigate these changes smoothly and ensure your organisation is ready. That’s why we’re hosting a [...]
Free Taster Briefing (ROI) – Join HR Team’s Free Webinar on 27th January 2025
As Ireland moves forward with significant updates in employment legislation, it’s essential for employers to stay informed and compliant. From the introduction of artificial intelligence legislation to Maternity Protection, Employment Equality, and Preservation of Certain Records Act updates, employers in the Republic of Ireland need to be prepared for the upcoming regulatory shifts. HR Team is here to help you navigate these changes smoothly and ensure your organisation is ready. That’s why we’re hosting a FREE Taster Briefing via webinar on 27th January 2025, designed specifically for ROI employers. This session will cover all the latest updates and what they [...]
New UK Government: Employment Law Reforms – What Employers Need to Know
With the new Labour government firmly established in Whitehall, significant changes to employment law are on the horizon for employers across England, Wales, and Scotland. These employment law reforms aim to enhance worker rights and introduce new standards affecting everyday business operations. Labour's "Plan to Make Work Pay" outlines these changes, which vary in significance and impact. Here's a summary of the key employment law changes 2024 that employers must be aware of. 1. Unfair Dismissal – Day One Right One of the most monumental shifts in employment law is the introduction of protection from unfair dismissal from the first [...]
Improvements to Parents’ Leave and Benefits in Ireland
Parenthood is a transformative journey, and Ireland recognises the significance of supporting parents during the crucial first two years of their child's life.
Working Time Changes in Northern Ireland: What Employers Need to Know
For employers in Northern Ireland, integrating EU case law into the Working Time (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2023 means adapting to new standards for holiday pay calculation and the carry-over of holidays.
Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Bill: What UK Employers Need to Know
The Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Bill represents a significant shift in the UK’s legislative landscape, especially for employers.