The “Jargon-Free” Guide to
2026 Employment Law
Important information about employment law changes coming in 2026 will be covered in this article.
What Warwickshire & Worcestershire SMEs actually need to know about the 2026 Employment Law changes.
The upcoming updates are creating a lot of noise. At Arden Personnel, we’ve stripped away the corporate-speak to give you the three big things that will affect your business this year.
(For full details, you can always visit the GOV.UK Employing People section).
April 2026
1. The “Day One” Shake-up
Previously, staff had to be with you for months to get certain benefits. From April 6th, that changes, as the 2026 Employment Law introduces immediate eligibility for several rights.
- Sick Pay: Staff now qualify for SSP from their very first day of illness (no 3-day wait) and the earnings limit is scrapped.
- Paternity/Parental Leave: Now “Day One” rights. A new hire could request leave in their first week.
Update your handbooks & adjust payroll budgets to account for earlier costs.
Crucial Change
2. The End of “DIY” Guesswork
The government is moving “Unfair Dismissal” protection from 2 years down to 6 months, reflecting the significant shifts under the Employment Law 2026 regulations.
- The Reality: You can no longer “wait and see” for a year. If they aren’t the right fit, you must act fast.
- No More Buffer: Letting someone go becomes legally complicated after that 6-month mark.
Your recruitment must be spot-on from the start. You can’t afford a “bad hire.”
Crucial Change
3. Cleaning up “grey” areas
Tightening the current rules on casual work and workplace safety is a direct response to 2026 Employment Law legislation. Make sure you are up to date.
- Zero-Hours: If staff regularly work regular hours, you must offer a guaranteed contract reflecting that reality.
- Third-Party Harassment: You are now legally liable if customers or contractors harass your staff—not just colleagues.
Review shift patterns and ensure robust harassment policies are visible.
How Arden Personnel helps you stay “Safe”
We aren’t lawyers, but we are experts at finding the right people so you don’t have to worry about it.
🌰 Acorn
Perfect for a quick, compliant hire with a flat fee, and designed for a changing 2026 employment law environment.
🌳 Oak
Our exclusive service where we handle the deep-dive vetting to ensure they are a “Day One” success, responding to the needs highlighted in 2026 Employment Law guidance.
⏱️ Temps
The safest way to “try before you buy” while these new 2026 employment law measures settle in and become established.