2024 marked a pivotal year for HR professionals and employers in the UK. With the introduction of the Employment Rights Bill (2024), significant updates to workplace compliance, and shifting pay expectations from the autumn budget, the landscape of employment has evolved rapidly. For employers, the challenge lies in staying ahead of these changes while ensuring their organisations remain compliant, competitive, and an attractive place to work.
At ACR, we understand how daunting this can be for businesses, especially as we move into 2025. That’s why we’re thrilled to host our upcoming event to help you tackle these new challenges head-on.
Join us on Wednesday, 5th February 2025, at the Holiday Inn Peterborough, PE3 6SG. Starting with breakfast at 08.30, we’ll guide you through a packed morning of insights and strategies designed to make 2025 a successful year for your business.
Here’s what’s on the agenda and why it matters for your business:
Employment Law Changes for 2025
The Employment Rights Bill (ERB)
The ERB is set to bring some of the most significant employment law reforms we’ve seen in recent years. Although many of these changes won’t be implemented until 2026, employers need to understand the proposed legislation and take steps to prepare early.
Key changes include:
“Day One” Right Against Unfair Dismissal
Employees will have the right to challenge unfair dismissal from their first day of work, removing the current two-year qualifying period. Implementation isn’t expected until autumn 2026, but organisations should anticipate how this will impact their dismissal policies and approaches.
Restrictions on “Fire and Rehire” Practices
Under the ERB, it will be considered automatically unfair for employers to dismiss employees for refusing contract changes or engaging in rehiring practices for the same roles. This will alter how employers approach workforce reorganisations and contract negotiations.
Enhanced Harassment Policies
Employers will now be liable for all types of workplace harassment, including third-party harassment. You’ll need to demonstrate that you’ve taken all reasonable steps to prevent such behaviour.
Zero-Hours Contracts Limitations
Employers offering zero-hours contracts will have new obligations to provide greater consistency, including guaranteed hours for regular workers and compensation for cancelled or shortened shifts.
Flexible Working
Employees will have stronger rights to request flexible working, and employers can only deny such requests if they have a “reasonable” basis. This creates opportunities, but also complexities for workforce management.
These changes demand that businesses not only comply with the updated legislation but also adapt their recruitment and employment policies to align with the new standards.
Pay Plans and Employee Expectations
The government’s pledge to “Make Work Pay” and the impact of the 2024 autumn budget mean that pay expectations have shifted significantly. Employers will need to remain competitive in an increasingly tight labour market.
Learn about:
Current pay trends across industries.
How changes in national insurance thresholds and tax structures could influence salary reviews.
Incorporating total reward strategies to attract and retain skilled workers in 2025.
Recruitment and Retention Challenges
Finding and keeping the right talent remains a top priority for UK businesses. The complexities of a competitive labour market, coupled with the rapidly evolving legal environment, mean that HR professionals need to think strategically when it comes to attracting and retaining talent.
We’ll cover:
Key recruitment trends for 2025, including changes in candidate behaviour and expectations.
Strategies to enhance your employer brand and stand out in the fight for top talent.
How to address workplace culture and engagement to improve retention rates.
Speakers You Can’t Miss
This event will feature insights from top industry professionals, including:
Nel Woolcott, ACR
Nel will provide expert advice on addressing recruitment challenges and building a more inclusive and attractive workplace.
Tim Kellett, Paydata Ltd
Gain expert insights into pay benchmarking, pay gap reporting, and crafting competitive pay strategies for 2025.
Desley Sherwin, Roythornes Solicitors
Desley will guide you through the complex changes in employment law, ensuring your workplace remains compliant and protected.
Event Details
Date: Wednesday, 5th February 2025
Location: Holiday Inn Peterborough, PE3 6SG
Breakfast: Served from 08.30
Event Duration: 08.30 – 11.30
Spaces are limited—register today to reserve your spot
We look forward to seeing you there!
https://annecorder.co.uk/events/what-every-employer-needs-to-know