Have your say – new open consultations (including zero-hours contracts)
The Government has opened further consultations linked to the Employment Rights Act 2025 and its “Make Work Pay” agenda, including the much-anticipated proposals on zero-hours contracts. Views are invited from employers, workers, trade unions and members of the public. If you would like to contribute, follow the relevant links and submit your response before the stated deadlines.
- Misuse of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) - closes: 8 July 2026, link here.
- Ending one-sided flexibility - reforms of zero-hours and similar contracts - closes: 25 August 2026, link here. This consultation covers the right to guaranteed hours, reasonable notice of shifts and changes, and compensation for cancelled or altered shifts.
- Employment rights for unpaid carers and parents of seriously ill children - closes 1 September 2026, link here.
- Time off for public duties - closes 4 September 2026, link here. This consultation covers eligibility for time off, proposed changes to the current list of duties, and how the entitlement would operate in practice.
New data protection complaint right
From 19 June 2026, individuals have the right to complain directly to organisations about how their personal data is handled. While not strictly an HR issue, it is relevant for employers to be aware of the change.
Organisations must:
- Provide a simple way to submit complaints, such as an online form
- Acknowledge complaints promptly
- Investigate concerns and keep individuals informed of the outcome.
This development strengthens individual rights and places clearer responsibility on employers to deal with data concerns appropriately.
UK Government launches fit note reform pilots
In May, the Government launched pilot schemes in England to test proposed changes to the fit note system, due to begin in July 2026. The approach is moving away from GP-issued notes towards earlier intervention, including direct referrals to health and work support services.
The aim is to help employees remain in work or return more quickly. Employers are expected to take a more active role, through early support, workplace adjustments and open dialogue with employees during periods of sickness absence.
HR Support Team update
This month, we said thank you and farewell to Angela Stancer as she begins her retirement after 35 years with the business. Angela has provided consistent support to both clients and colleagues over the years. She will be greatly missed, and we wish her all the very best for the future.
