The Employment Rights Bill 2024, published on October 10, 2024, is set to substantially change workers' rights in the UK.
Billed as a once-in-a-generation upgrade to workers' rights, the bill follows the Labour Party’s pre-election “Plan to Make Work Pay” proposals. The bill is only the first step in making changes, and it could take up to two years for some of the proposals to pass through parliament. However, some of the proposals included within the bill are far-reaching and, in time, could impact temporary workers and the agencies that supply them.
How Might the Employment Rights Bill Affect Temporary Workers?
Key changes include introducing "Day One" rights, which grant workers access to statutory sick pay and maternity pay without completing qualifying periods.
The bill also includes proposals to incorporate a Fair Work Agency, an enforcement body that would combine existing bodies and become responsible for enforcing employment rights such as paid holidays.
The bill also included proposals to review the national minimum wage for 18-to-20-year-olds and bolster workers' protection against sexual harassment in the workplace.
One thing absent from the bill that could affect temporary workers in the future was the proposed Single Worker Status. We expect the proposal, which looks to simplify the defined status of a worker, to be addressed through further consultation in the coming months and years.
Next Steps Following the Employment Rights Bill
At TJW Contract Solutions Limited, we prioritise the well-being of our agency clients and workers. We understand that legislative changes may put added burden and pressure on our agency partners. We are fully prepared to support our clients through these changes, ensuring compliance with emerging regulations and protecting workers’ rights.
Our team is committed to making any transition seamless and providing ongoing advice and assistance as required. Whether it’s adapting to new rules on workers' rights or ensuring transparency on pay and conditions, we’ll be here every step of the way.
For more information and support, contact the TJW team on 01784 270300.
Alternatively, visit our website at https://www.tjwcontracts.co.uk/ or follow us on LinkedIn.
