NuStaff

Every year, April ushers in key employment law updates in the UK, and 2025 is no different. This month’s changes are particularly noteworthy, reflecting the government’s ongoing efforts to modernise the workplace and create a fairer, more flexible environment for employees and employers alike.

Whether you’re actively recruiting, managing a workforce, or navigating the job market yourself, staying on top of these developments is crucial.

Here’s everything you need to know about the latest changes and how they could impact your employment decisions going forward.

Key Changes in Employment Law (Effective April 2025)

1. Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) Increase

Starting from 6 April 2025, the weekly rate of Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) has increased to £116.75.
This update ensures that workers receive a more robust financial safety net while off sick. Employers must make sure their payroll systems are adjusted accordingly and that employees are aware of the new rate.

Why this matters:

A higher SSP rate can make a meaningful difference for employees managing their health and financial obligations. For employers, staying compliant with updated pay standards helps maintain trust and avoids potential penalties.

2. Flexible Working Requests from Day One

One of the most impactful changes this year is the removal of the 26-week qualifying period for requesting flexible working.

From April 2025, all employees have the right to request flexible working from their first day of employment.

This can include requests for:
• Remote or hybrid working arrangements.
• Adjusted working hours or shift patterns.
• Compressed or part-time schedules

Why this matters:

This change reflects a significant cultural shift in how work is approached post-pandemic. It empowers employees with more control over their work-life balance and encourages employers to foster inclusive, adaptable workplaces. Employers are still allowed to decline requests for valid business reasons, but they must follow a fair and transparent process to do so.

3. Introduction of Statutory Carer’s Leave

Another notable addition is the new Statutory Carer’s Leave, which gives unpaid carers the right to five days
off per year to attend to their caring responsibilities.

This leave is available from day one of employment and is designed to support those who provide care for:
• Elderly parents or relatives
• Disabled family members
• Others with long-term health needs

Why this matters:
Carers form a significant portion of the UK workforce, and this legislation acknowledges their dual roles. By offering dedicated leave, employers can show empathy and support, which contributes to higher employee retention and morale.

What These Changes Mean for You

For Job Seekers:

If you’re entering the job market, these updates enhance your rights and improve work-life flexibility from day one. When applying for new roles, you can:
• Request flexible working right away, rather than waiting six months.
• Feel more secure knowing your sick pay entitlement is higher.
• Take necessary leave if you’re an unpaid carer, without risking your job.

Make sure to ask prospective employers about how they’re implementing these new policies,
especially around flexibility and carer’s leave.

For Employers:

The legislative changes mean it’s time for a policy refresh. You’ll need to:
• Update employment contracts and staff handbooks to reflect the new rights.
• Train managers on handling flexible working requests and statutory leave fairly.
• Adjust payroll systems to align with the new SSP rate.

Being proactive in these areas not only ensures compliance but also strengthens your employer brand in a competitive talent market.

Need Support Making Sense of These Changes?

Whether you're refining your hiring strategy or planning your next career move, staying informed is key to success in today’s dynamic employment landscape.

At NuStaff Recruitment, we’re here to help both candidates and employers understand and respond to these legal shifts. If you're unsure how these updates apply to your situation or if you’d like hands on support, we’re just a call away.

Let’s make employment law work for you.

Get in touch with our team today:

📞 Call us: 03442 645 456
📧 Email: info@nustaff.com
🌐 Visit: www.nustaff.com