Employment laws within the UK govern different aspects of how you should behave as an employer. You may be more familiar with some than others. Below, we have outlined some of the major employment laws that apply to UK business owners and employers.
Employment Relations Act 1999 – This law established a number of legal rights including the recognition of trade union bodies, the right for an employee to be accompanied during a disciplinary hearing and the right to maternity leave.
Employment Rights Act 1996 – The Employment Rights Act 1996 is a comprehensive act that covers all employment rights including contracts, unfair dismissal, parental leave and redundancy.
Maternity and Parental Leave Regulations 1999 – This act outlines the rights that new parents have when taking time off work following a new baby. By law, employees with children under the age of 18 are allowed to take up to 18 weeks off work unpaid throughout the year to look after their families.
National Minimum Wage Act 1998 – Minimum wage varies depending on age and must be paid. Employees over the age of 23 are legally obliged to receive the National Living Wage.
Part-Time Workers Regulations 2000 – This law ensures that part time workers within the UK receive equal treatment to full time members of staff.
Transfer of Undertakings Regulations 2006 – TUPE regulations protect employee rights during a business transfer, such as when a new company has bought an existing company.