Workplace Compass: Employment Rights Act hub

The government has published draft regulations protecting workers from detriment for taking protected industrial action and draft legislation introducing electronic and workplace balloting for statutory trade union ballots.

The EAT has confirmed that employers can provide payslips electronically, provided employees can access them without practical barriers.

In a recent decision, the EAT confirmed that uncapped loss of earnings can be awarded where discriminatory treatment leads to an employee's resignation, even if the dismissal itself is not discriminatory. 

The Fair Work Agency launched in April 2026 with a strong early focus on National Minimum Wage enforcement. Schools should take this opportunity to review their pay practices, working hours, and deductions to reduce the risk of non-compliance.

With zero-hours reforms are on the horizon, the government has launched a detailed consultation on the changes. 

The government has published a summary of stakeholder feedback on the forthcoming unfair dismissal reforms, alongside regulations confirming that the changes will take effect from 1 January 2027.

A recent Fair Work Agency report has highlighted widespread non-compliance with employment rights across the UK, reinforcing the importance of proactive compliance and increasing the likelihood of more robust enforcement activity.

Draft regulations laid before Parliament will extend the limitation period for a range of employment tribunal claims from three months to six months from October 2026, significantly increasing the period during which workplace disputes may remain live.

The government is seeking views on how TUPE operates in practice, with potential reform under consideration.