Work Break Discussion on Employment Law | Updates on Right-to-Work Verifications, Business Journeys, Queen's Speech, Health & Safety Protections Ruling, and Strategies for Future-Proofed Work Arrangements
UK Announces Post-Pandemic Changes in Employment and Education Sector
The UK government is making significant strides in shaping the future of work and education, with proposals for reforms in non-compete provisions, flexible working, and skills training.
In a move aimed at fostering a more adaptable workforce, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to skills and training, as outlined in the Queen's speech. The focus is on bringing the skills and education system closer to the employment market and widening opportunities. A Skills and Post-16 Education Bill, due to be introduced into the House of Commons next week, is expected to further these efforts.
The government's flexible working taskforce is reportedly drawing up guidance for the emergence of new hybrid ways of working, with the aim of implementation by June 21, 2021. This comes as many organizations are looking at incorporating revised working models, and employers must future-proof their employment contracts and employee arrangements.
The pandemic has highlighted the need for flexibility in managing a workforce, and tools such as employee pulse surveys and discussion groups can give employers a head start. However, employers should ensure clear guidelines for managers on dealing with staff who do not wish to travel due to medical concerns or family circumstances.
While the government may be waiting for the right time to implement employment law reforms to address the needs of businesses and workers in the post-Covid economy, some changes are already underway. For instance, the Employment Appeal Tribunal has confirmed that the protection afforded to employees under the Employment Rights Act extends to upset and friction caused by an employee in implementing health and safety measures.
In addition, the government intends to bring forward a Health and Disability green paper to continuously improve support for disabled people. The National Strategy for Disabled People will set out practical changes for disabled people that remove barriers and increase opportunity.
On a related note, the Covid-19 adjusted right to work checks are no longer in effect as of April 2022. Current right to work checks in the UK follow pre-pandemic rules. For more information or assistance with business travel policies, immigration options, or understanding the new business travel rules, contact Gavin Jones or your usual firm contact.
As the UK forges ahead in its recovery, these changes promise to reshape the employment and education landscapes, offering new opportunities for businesses and individuals alike.
[1] Home Office announcement [2] Immigration and Skills Charge increase [3] Global Talent Visa announced [4] Skills Accelerator program [5] Post-Study Work Visa
- To support businesses in attracting global talent, the Home Office has announced a new Global Talent Visa, offering a streamlined application process for exceptional individuals in various fields.
- In light of these changes, the UK government has also proposed an increase in the Immigration Skills Charge and the launch of a Post-Study Work Visa, aiming to bridge the skills gap and bolster the finance sector in the post-pandemic economy.
