It is now expected to be published in 2021, Parliamentary time permitting, and the measures are wide-ranging, several originating from the Good Work Plan back in 2018. The headlines of the Bill are outlined below for information and to provide a long view. We have, as yet, no timings or details for implementation although it is unlikely to be published before the current vaccination programme is more widespread, lockdown is easing, and some 'normality' is returning.
Right to request a more predictable and stable contract after 26 weeks’ service
This measure is to address the unpredictability of zero-hours contracts and the vulnerability zero-hours workers often feel. Early commentary on this measure intimated that the process may be like that of requesting flexible working practices, but this has not been confirmed.
Longer redundancy protection for pregnant employees
Under current legislation, pregnant employees are given protections against redundancies for the duration of their maternity leave. Under the Bill, this protection period would be extended to the date employees notify their employer of their pregnancy until six months after their return to work.
Extended leave for parents of children in neonatal care
We understand that the Government intends to introduce the right for parents to take an additional week of leave for every week their baby is in need of neonatal care, up to a maximum of 12 weeks. The leave will be added to the end of the parent’s maternity or paternity leave.
Carers’ leave
The Government consulted in March 2020 on the proposal to introduce a new right for employees with caring responsibilities to take a week’s unpaid leave each year. The consultation sought views on eligibility, the purpose of the leave and notification details. No government response has been issued as yet.
Single labour market enforcement
The aim of this body is to ensure that vulnerable workers are better informed of their rights and to support businesses in compliance. The Government of the day consulted on this body in 2019 but this Government has yet to respond.
Payment of tips and service charges
The Bill provides that all tips and service charges go to workers and the distribution be supported by a statutory code.
For further information in relation to any of the above, please contact your relevant ACS contact or Jackie Morris.
The Government has released several factsheets on the Building Safety Bill. We will be reviewing these and outlining how they can assist providers to prepare for the new building safety regime.
With the new law, spouses will be able to achieve a good divorce, making the best of a bad situation.
Anthony Collins Solicitors is able to be at the forefront of family law issues and to be a driving force for change and promotion of conciliatory working.
Anthony Collins Solicitors is supporting Resolution’s Good Divorce Week commencing on 29 November. But what is Resolution, what’s its purpose and what is a Good Divorce Week?
Anthony Collins Solicitors (ACS) has been named Family Law Firm of the Year: Midlands and Wales at the prestigious Family Law Firm Awards.
Puja Desai interviews employees around the firm and discusses their experience with different invisible illnesses. The first part was on diabetes, the second MS and this podcast focuses on epilepsy.
Social mobility and its impact on the modern workforce was top of the agenda at a virtual event hosted by law firm Anthony Collins Solicitors on Tuesday 23 November.
This month we will be considering the impact of the Autumn Budget and Spending Review on the charity sector, trustee good practice concerning benefits and net carbon zero plans.
Earlier this month, the Environment Act 2021 received Royal Assent introducing the Office for Environmental Protection. Many charities and environmental groups are buoyed by the new legislation.
Chris Lloyd-Smith, a partner at Birmingham-based law firm Anthony Collins Solicitors (ACS), has been elected as chair of Resolution’s West Midlands group.
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