The Employment Rights Bill, expected to come into effect between 2026 and 2027, introduces 28 major proposals designed to modernise workplace rights, strengthen employee protections, and promote fairness across all sectors.
For businesses and employers across Walsall, understanding and preparing for these new rules is essential — and Rickna HR, your trusted local Walsall HR consultant, is here to help you navigate every step of the way.
The first major updates under the Employment Rights Bill 2026 are expected to come into effect in April 2026, directly impacting everyday workforce management and HR policies.
Key changes include:
Statutory Sick Pay (SSP):
Employees will qualify for SSP from day one of sickness (instead of after four days). Employers should review absence management policies to manage potential cost increases.
Paternity and Parental Leave:
Both will become day-one rights, meaning no minimum service period will be required.
Other April 2026 updates:
Doubling the maximum collective redundancy protective award period.
Strengthened whistleblowing protections for employees.
What this means for Walsall employers:
With so many employment law changes ahead, now is the time for Walsall employers to start preparing.
At Rickna HR, I specialise in helping small and medium-sized businesses stay compliant, streamline HR processes, and get ready for the upcoming employment law reforms.
My services include: Reviewing and updating HR policies and contracts.
Training managers on the new legal obligations.
Preparing tailored roadmaps for compliance with the Employment Rights Bill 2026.
Whether you’re an employer, manager, or business owner, Rickna HR provides expert, local support so you can focus on running your business with confidence and peace of mind.
Contact Donna @ Rickna HR today on donna@ricknahr.co.uk, 07432 145 007 or Rickna HR | HR advice to prepare your business for the 2026–2027 employment law changes.Let’s make sure your policies, processes, and people are future-ready.
