The Employment Rights Act (ERA) is set to bring some big changes over the next couple of years, and 2026 is going to be a busy year for HR and business leaders alike.

Big changes are coming in 2027. From 1 January 2027, the unfair dismissal qualifying period drops from 2 years to just 6 months and compensatory awards are uncapped.

More change is coming your way, and this one hits payroll, absence management, and manager confidence. From 6 April 2026, Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is getting a major overhaul - and yes, it’s another one you’ll want to prepare for early. 

From February 2026, there are several important changes to paternity, parental, bereavement, and maternity protections. If you own a business or manage people you need to know these updates and take action. 

Zero-hours and low-hours contracts are getting a major overhaul. From 2027, flexibility will still exist, but it will need to work both ways. 

If you operate in hospitality, leisure or any environment where tips form part of workers’ income, this one needs to be on your radar. The Employment Rights Act is tightening expectations around how tipping policies are created and reviewed.