The Employment Rights Act come into force on April 6
Need to know
The Employment Rights Act come into force on April 6
The law affecting sick days is about to change
All workers are set to see massive changes from April 6, as seven key measures in the new Employment Rights Act come into force next month. The government estimates these reforms will benefit around 15 million people—fully half of all UK workers.
All You Need To Know: Massive Employment Law Changes From April 6
- The new Employment Rights Act brings massive changes for all workers, with seven key measures set to come into force next month. These reforms are expected to benefit around fifteen million people, which is half of all UK workers.
- The biggest change is to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP), which will become a ‘day one’ right from April 6, 2026. This crucial update removes the three unpaid “waiting days,” immediately lessening financial pressure for those who fall ill.
- Critically, the lower earnings limit for SSP eligibility will be completely scrapped under the new law. This important move will ensure those on low wages or part-time contracts who previously did not qualify can now receive sick pay.
- The way SSP is calculated is also set to change dramatically under the new rules. Instead of a flat weekly rate, your sick pay will now be based on a percentage of your usual income, creating a fairer system.
- New parents will gain ‘day one’ rights for family leave in a major boost for workers. Employees will now be entitled to Paternity Leave and Unpaid Parental Leave from their very first day in a new role.
- There is also a new right introduced for Bereaved Partner’s Paternity Leave for those who suffer a tragic loss. This allows time off following the death of a child’s mother or primary adopter, providing essential support during a difficult time.
- Protection against unfair dismissal is also being enhanced, although the change will take effect later on January 1, 2027. Employees will gain this protection after six months in post, a significant reduction from the current two-year qualifying period.
- The Act also includes stronger protections for workers in other areas, like those who report sexual harassment (whistleblowing). Furthermore, there will be an increase to the protective award for non-compliance in collective redundancy situations.
Full story: Anyone taking day off sick from April 6 told of change to law
