This is a quick update of the employment law changes that have been implemented from April 2011 and some that have been put on hold.
Paternity leave
There are new additional Paternity leave and pay arrangements, which give partners (not just fathers) the right to claim up to 6 months of the mothers maternity leave, provided the mother returns to work. The leave must be for the purposes of providing care for the child. This is in addition to the current entitlement to 2 weeks paternity leave and pay. This also applies for adoption leave.
Default retirement age
The default of 65 is abolished, employers will no longer be able to issue notifications for compulsory retirement, employers mostly have to employ capability procedures, however, care must be taken to guard against unfair dismissal or discrimination claims.
Both of these are complex areas and I would suggest you contact Headway if you are concerned about the implications for your business.
Time off for Training
Previously, only employees of companies in more than 250 employees were granted the statutory right to request time off for study or training related to their work. This right has been extended to companies with employees of less than 250 people.
Changes in Statutory Rates
Statutory maternity, paternity and adoption pay to £128.73
Statutory sick pay to £81.60
In February, the statutory redundancy pay increased to a maximum of £400 weekly wage calculation
Now on hold…
Bribery at 2010
This was due to come into force in this April but has been delayed. There is no date for implementation.
Flexible Working
Right to request flexible working to parents of 17-year-olds was due to be introduced this April, this will no longer be introduced.
