The South Coast has a diverse economy — defence and maritime in Hampshire, tourism in Dorset, and a mix of professional services and retail along the Sussex coast. All need contracts updated for ERA 2025.
Action required: The Employment Rights Act 2025 introduced significant changes from 6 April 2026. SSP now applies from day one with no waiting days. Paternity leave is a day-one right. Employment contracts that reference the old rules need updating immediately.
All employers in England, Scotland and Wales are affected by the Employment Rights Act 2025. The key changes in force from 6 April 2026:
| Change | Detail | Action needed |
|---|---|---|
| SSP from day one | No more 3 waiting days. SSP payable from first day of absence. | Update employment contracts |
| Paternity leave — day one right | No qualifying period. Any employee can take paternity leave immediately. | Update HR policies and contracts |
| Parental leave — day one right | Unpaid parental leave previously required 1 year service. Now immediate. | Update contracts and policies |
| NMW April 2026 | 21+: £12.21/hr. 18-20: £10.00/hr. 16-17: £7.55/hr. | Update offer letters and payroll |
| Unfair dismissal (Jan 2027) | Qualifying period drops from 2 years to 6 months. | Review probation procedures now |
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