The UK’s new employment rights are arriving in phases rather than all at once. Several measures already apply, the next batch lands on 30 October 2026, and unfair dismissal reforms follow on 1 January 2027.
For employers, that means compliance is a moving target. For workers, it means new entitlements are switching on throughout the year. The government’s Business.gov.uk hub sets out what has changed, what is next, and where to find detailed guidance for each group. It says the hub will be refreshed as further measures come in.
What has already changed
Twelve measures have taken effect since February 2026, with April 2026 the biggest single wave. Newest first:
The holiday pay record rule is the one with a hard operational deadline: a record made in October 2026 must be kept until October 2032.
What is coming next
Two dates matter most for the months ahead: 30 October 2026 for union and harassment reforms, and 1 January 2027 for unfair dismissal. The government cautions that future dates still depend on parliamentary processes and could move.
From 30 October 2026: trade unions
- Workplace access. Independent trade unions gain a legal right to enter workplaces and speak with workers, whether in person or online.
- Wider union law changes. Unions can reach workers earlier during the recognition process. Workplace representatives get rights to paid time off and to facilities. Workers are protected from detriment for taking industrial action.
From 30 October 2026: harassment
- Sexual harassment. Employers must take “all reasonable steps” to stop their staff being sexually harassed.
- Third-party harassment. Employers must not allow their staff to be harassed by third parties, such as people outside the organisation.
From 1 January 2027: unfair dismissal
The qualifying period for unfair dismissal protection will be shortened. The cap on the compensatory award will also be removed. The hub carries an explainer video on these changes.
The government’s delivery timeline on GOV.UK gives fuller detail on later stages.
How to have your say and stay informed
Three government consultations are open, and the earliest closes on 27 October 2026. Businesses and workers who want to shape the next stage of reform can respond on GOV.UK:
| Consultation | Closes |
|---|---|
| Equal pay and pay discrimination | 27 October 2026 |
| Whistleblowing | 8 January 2027 |
| Employment status reform and protections for the self-employed | 8 January 2027 |
The hub has separate guidance pages for employers and employees, plus an email sign-up for updates as new measures are rolled out.
This post summarises official guidance and is not legal advice. Check the source pages for the latest position, as dates may change.