As we continue through Spring, we continue to see new UK employment legislation coming into force and amendments to existing employment legislation. The month of April has seen changes to employment legislation that aim to be of benefit to carers and those taking family leave with:
– The Carer’s Leave Act 2023
On 6 April 2024 the Carer’s Leave Regulations 2024 brought into effect the rights set out under the Carer’s Leave Act 2023 which provides carers with a statutory right to unpaid leave to assist in their caring responsibilities.
– Paternity Leave (Amendment) Regulations 2024
New amendments to Paternity Leave regulations will allow eligible employees to take their 2 weeks paternity leave in two separate blocks of a week at any time during the first 12 months following birth or adoption.
– The Protection from Redundancy (Pregnancy and Family Leave) Act 2023
The Protection from Redundancy (Pregnancy and Family Leave) Act 2023 also come into force on 6 April 2024, as well as amendments to Paternity Leave both of which will apply to cases where the Expected Week of Childbirth or Expected Week of Placement is on or after 6 April 2024.
Employers are advised to continue their spring clean of Handbook policies and procedures following the introduction of the new carer’s leave, the changes to paternity leave and the wider protections provided for employees who are pregnant or returning from maternity, adoption or shared parental leave. The new legislation will require existing policies to be reviewed and updated and new polices to be introduced to set out the new legislation. Employers would also be advised to ensure they are raising awareness and understanding of these new changes for both managers and their workforce.
Much like the current UK weather, UK employment legislation will continue to be changeable throughout the year and we will continue to keep you updated.
About the Authors
Nic Hart is Managing Partner of the London office of Duane Morris LLP, a law firm offering innovative solutions to today’s legal and business challenges across the US, the UK and internationally. Nic specialises in providing business-focused employment advice and litigation for a range of clients.
Nic is supported by Alice Head and Sophia Radford in the employment department.
Alice Head and Sophia Radford advise clients on a broad range of employment law issues. This includes practical support to employers at each stage of the employment cycle, providing employers with up to date guidance and policies and offering practical support to assist employers compliance with employment legislation.
