In October 2024, the UK government introduced the Employment Rights Bill—a major move to boost job security, pay, and working conditions nationwide.
With over 28 new reforms, this bill aims to make work better for everyone, from employees to organisations.
What’s Changing?
To kick things off, the bill is putting an end to exploitative zero-hour contracts for those seeking more stability, giving employees the right to guaranteed hours if they work regularly.
Within the time period of April to June 2024 3% of the employed population were on a zero-hour contract, of which 26% were found to want more hours.
On top of that, it’s putting a stop to fire-and-rehire tactics—no more letting workers go only to bring them back on worse terms, meaning more job security for everyone.
These change aims to give those workers the security they’ve been asking for.
From day one, new hires will now have protections against unfair dismissal, so they won’t have to wait two years to feel secure in their roles.
The bill also brings in a statutory probation period, giving both employees and employers a chance to see if it’s the right fit from the start.
Support for Working Families
Balancing work and family? This bill has you covered. Parental, paternity, and bereavement leave will now be available from the very first day on the job.
Plus, flexible working will become the default for most roles—unless an employer has a solid reason not to allow it.
A Fairer, More Inclusive Workplace
The bill is also pushing for more fairness in the workplace. Big companies will need to tackle gender pay gaps and support employees going through life events, like menopause.
Plus, there’ll be extra protections for pregnant women and new mums, so they can balance family and work without worrying about losing their jobs.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission found that currently around 54,000 experienced unfair treatment or felt compelled to leave due to pregnancy or maternity related discrimination.
To make sure these rights stick, a new Fair Work Agency will be set up. It’ll keep an eye on everything from holiday pay to sick pay, giving support to businesses that play by the rules and cracking down on those that don’t.
Looking Ahead
This bill is part of the government’s “Make Work Pay” plan, which aims to build a fairer, more secure job market.
By focusing on job security, flexibility, and fair pay, the Employment Rights Bill sets a new standard for workplaces across the UK—a win-win for you and businesses alike.
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