HR Matters Bitesize Webinar - Episode 5 September 2026

The Employment Rights Act Changes Coming in October This 30-minute Bitesize webinar, led by Laura McLellan and employment law specialist Sam Butler, provides a practical overview of the most significant upcoming changes under the Employment Rights Act and what employers need to do to prepare. The session focuses on key reforms taking effect from October 2026 and January 2027, including the extension of employment tribunal claim time limits from three to six months, which will require organisations to retain documentation for longer, preserve evidence effectively, and manage employment-related risks over an extended period. The webinar also explores important changes to workplace harassment laws. Employers will be required to take “all reasonable steps” to prevent sexual harassment and, from 30 October, may be liable for harassment of employees by third parties such as customers, clients, contractors, patients, and members of the public. Practical guidance is provided on risk assessments, training, reporting mechanisms, incident monitoring, and manager responsibilities. In addition, the session examines trade union reforms, including new obligations to inform employees of their right to join a union, potential annual reminders, enhanced union access rights, and wider protections that could make union recognition and industrial action easier. Looking ahead to January 2027, Sam highlights changes to unfair dismissal protection, including the reduction of the qualifying service period from two years to six months. Employers are encouraged to review probationary processes, address performance concerns earlier, and prepare for potentially higher compensation awards following the removal of current compensation caps. The webinar concludes with practical recommendations focused on documentation, manager training, harassment prevention, trade union readiness, and probation management to help organisations navigate these significant employment law reforms effectively.