New proposals signal a significant shift in how confidentiality clauses can be used in settlement agreements and employment contracts.

The government and the Fair Work Agency outline how the new enforcement body will operate in 2026–2027, with a focus on compliance, coordination and future expansion of powers.

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.

On 6 April 2026, the third set of commencement regulations under the Employment Rights Act 2025 came into force, reforming statutory sick pay (SSP). These changes remove the three-day waiting period, abolish the lower earnings limit (LEL) for eligibility, and introduce a modified approach for lower earners.

Recruitment shortages, industrial relations tensions and new employment legislation are creating a challenging environment for FE colleges. Here is what leadership and HR teams need to know.