UK employment law is currently undergoing a period of significant change. Over the next 18 months, a number of reforms will take effect that materially increase employment-related risk for employers in the UK, including the reduction of the unfair dismissal qualifying period from two years to six months, the removal of the unfair dismissal compensation cap, new duties to prevent sexual harassment, extended Employment Tribunal limitation periods, and expanded trade union rights.
Some of these changes will require more than simply updating policies. UK employers may wish to, if they are not already doing so, commence work now to review contracts, procedures, manager training, and record-keeping practices to ensure they are prepared when the new rules take effect. Businesses that take steps now may be better placed to manage risk, avoid or mitigate costly disputes, and adapt to the evolving UK employment law landscape.