Change looms | Key preparations for the Employment Rights Bill in 2026

For many HR leaders, 2025 has been defined by constant legal change, from new obligations to prevent sexual harassment to shifting expectations around flexible working and employee protections. And as the year draws to a close, there is little sign of respite heading into the new year.

The Employment Rights Bill is still not law, yet the first wave of its most significant reforms is scheduled to take effect in April. However, with parliamentary disagreement dragging on and consultation windows narrowing, employers are being asked to prepare for change without the certainty they would normally expect.