Understand changes to UK employment law with our audience Q&A

As UK businesses continue to adapt to an evolving legal landscape, staying informed about the latest employment law changes is crucial. Our recent webinar, Employment law changes: What to expect and how to prepare, delved into key updates and addressed common questions employers may have.

You can dive into the key highlights in our webinar recap. We had an insightful audience Q&A highlighting and addressing some of the issues front of mind for employers just like yours.

Read on to learn what the experts Jenny Arrowsmith and Helen Kidd from Irwin Mitchell Solicitors had to say.

Question: Do we have to recognise a union?

Answer: While you are not legally obligated to recognise a union, it can be beneficial to do so. Recognising a union can help to foster a positive working relationship between employers and employees. If a union gains sufficient support from your workforce, they can force recognition through a statutory process. However, it is generally preferable to enter into a voluntary recognition agreement to avoid potential conflicts and ensure a smoother process.

Question: How will the right to switch off affect call work?

Answer: The right to switch off is likely to have limited impact on call work, as it’s typically a contractual arrangement. However, employers may need to review their call handling policies to ensure they comply with the new legislation.

Question: What is the Dying to Work Charter, and how can it benefit employers?

Answer: The Dying to Work Charter is a voluntary code of practice that provides guidance to employers on how to support employees who are diagnosed with a terminal illness. By implementing this charter, employers can create a more supportive workplace for employees facing such a difficult situation.

Question: Is a toolbox talk session sufficient to prevent harassment at work?

Answer: While a toolbox talk session can be a helpful starting point, it is not sufficient to prevent harassment at work. Employers should also implement a comprehensive harassment prevention policy, provide ongoing training for employees, and create a culture where employees feel comfortable reporting harassment without fear of retaliation.

Question: Will the changes to the minimum wage apply to London weighting?

Answer: It is likely that the changes to the minimum wage will apply to London weighting, as it is typically a percentage of the national minimum wage. However, the specific impact of these changes on London weighting will depend on the decisions made by the Low Pay Commission.

Question: Is it still worthwhile having a probationary period with the day one right of unfair dismissal?

Answer: Yes, it is still worthwhile having a probationary period, even with the introduction of day one unfair dismissal rights. Probationary periods can be used to assess an employee's suitability for a role and to identify any potential issues early on. While the dismissal process may be shortened for employees dismissed during their probationary period, employers still need to follow fair procedures and provide adequate documentation.

Key takeaways and next steps

From union recognition and the right to switch off to the Dying to Work Charter and harassment prevention, the UK's employment law landscape is evolving. By understanding these changes and implementing best practices, businesses can create a more compliant, supportive, and productive workplace.

To ensure your organisation remains compliant, consider:

Reviewing your employment policies and procedures to reflect the latest legal requirements.
Providing regular training to employees on their rights and responsibilities.
Establishing open communication channels with employees to address concerns and promote a positive work environment.
Seeking legal advice from experts such as Irwin Mitchell Solicitors to navigate complex employment law matters.

Need expert support?

Michael Page is your trusted partner for hiring and talent management. Whether you're navigating upcoming employment law changes or need assistance with your recruitment strategy, our team of experts is here to help.

Contact Michael Page today to discuss your specific needs and learn how they can support your business.