News

Employment Rights Act receives Royal Assent

Son and baby

The Employment Rights Act has become law.

This landmark legislation is designed to modernise and enhance employment rights and strengthen their enforcement. 

Provisions in the Act will be implemented through a phased approach. These include:

  • Day one rights to paternity leave and unpaid parental leave
  • Reforms to Statutory Sick Pay
  • Enhanced protections against dismissal for pregnant women and new mothers
  • Increased protection from unfair dismissal
  • An end to exploitative zero hours contracts
  • A new right to unpaid bereavement leave 
  • The establishment of the Fair Work Agency 

The UK Government will work with businesses and trade unions on the implementation of the Act.  For further information, please visit GOV.UK.


Business Wales Helpline

03000 6 03000

Lines are open 10am to 4pm Monday to Friday.

Rydym yn croesawu galwadau'n Gymraeg.