A year on from the publication of the Employment Rights Bill, the government has opened consultation on four areas:
- right of access for trade unions into the workplace (18 December 2025)
- duty of employers to inform employees of the right to join a union (18 December 2025)
- enhanced dismissal protection for pregnant women (15 January 2026)
- bereavement leave including pregnancy loss (15 January 2026)
Each of the consultations opened on 23 October with two different closing dates (as stated above).
The consultation gives anyone who has an opinion, the opportunity to respond to the questions that have been posed. With such wide ranging implications across the Bill, it is essential that affected businesses take this opportunity to engage with the process. In many cases, it is clear which approach the government favours and without challenge, we can expect those to be the default position when the secondary legislation is finalised.
Disclaimer
This information is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is recommended that specific professional advice is sought before acting on any of the information given. Please contact us for specific advice on your circumstances. © Shoosmiths LLP 2025.