Updates to Employment Laws

The UK government’s recent updates to employment laws in 2024 introduce several key protections for employees, affecting areas such as flexible working, redundancy protections for new parents, carer’s leave, and paternity leave. Here’s a breakdown of these changes and how they impact businesses: 

 

All employees can now request flexible working from the start of their employment, with employers required to respond within two months (down from three). Additionally, employees can make up to two requests per year, and employers must consult before denying any request. This regulation aims to enhance employee work-life balance and increase workforce retention and diversity. 

 

For employees caring for dependents with long-term needs, a new unpaid leave entitlement is available from day one. This policy provides essential flexibility for carers, supporting a more inclusive workplace and helping businesses retain talented employees who have caregiving responsibilities. 

 

This updated law extends redundancy protection for new and expecting parents, covering them from the time they notify their employer of pregnancy through 18 months post-birth. This adjustment helps safeguard the careers of new parents during critical family periods. 

 

Fathers and partners now have the option to take paternity leave in flexible, non-consecutive blocks during their child’s first year. This allows more adaptability for parents to manage their schedules around family needs and work commitments, improving employee satisfaction and retention. 

 

These changes require businesses to adapt policies, update employee handbooks, and review compliance measures. HRDownload offers tailored support to guide companies in implementing compliant policies, providing risk assessments, and facilitating training. Our platform includes tools to manage policy distribution, track compliance, and keep businesses aligned with evolving legal standards—helping to ease the compliance process and ensuring employee protections are met efficiently. 

 

These legislative updates are designed to create a more balanced, supportive, and inclusive work environment across the UK, benefiting both employees and employers. Let HRDownload support your company in navigating these transitions seamlessly, ensuring your business remains compliant and your team well-supported. Get in touch for a chat today.