Employment Rights Act: what SME employers need to prepare for next

Webinar: Wednesday 14 October 2026 | 12:00-1:00 PM GMT

The Employment Rights Act is already reshaping employment law, with several important changes now in force. The next wave is approaching, with further significant reforms taking effect this autumn and from January 2027. 

Following our last webinar in March, this next session in our Employment Rights Act webinar series will bring SME employers up to date on what has changed, what you should now have in place and where to focus next. Harper James employment lawyers Helen Mannix and Andrew Souter, chaired by Simon Gilmour, will lead the discussion.  

The one-hour session, including 15 minutes for questions, will focus on the practical implications for SME employers and the steps you can take now to manage the risks. 

What we'll cover

• What should already be in place - a quick recap of the main changes introduced so far during 2026.  

• Employment Tribunal claims - what the new six-month limitation period from 1 October means for disputes and record-keeping.  

• Sexual and third-party harassment - preparing for the stronger preventative duties from 30 October.  

• Trade union reforms - a brief look at the new workplace access and recognition changes from 30 October.  

• Unfair dismissal and fire and rehire - preparing for the key changes taking effect from January 2027.  

• What comes next - a look ahead to further 2027 reforms, including zero-hours contracts, flexible working, bereavement leave and enhanced protections for pregnant women and new mothers.  

We’ll finish with a high-level quarter-by-quarter priorities framework, helping you distinguish between what needs action now, what you should start preparing for and what can continue to be monitored. 

Who this webinar is for 

The session is for SME business owners, senior leaders, HR professionals and people managers who want a practical understanding of the changes and their priorities for the months ahead. 

You don’t need to have attended the previous webinar to join. 

What you’ll take away

You’ll leave with a clearer view of what has changed, where the main employment risks are increasing and the practical actions your business should prioritise now and into 2027.