21 September 2026
A further 11 employment law reforms are expected to take effect in October as part of the rollout of the Employment Rights Act 2025, with WorkNest providing retailers with a range of resources to understand the changes and prepare their businesses.
The reforms will introduce new employer duties and expand employee rights across areas including workplace harassment, trade union rights, employment tribunals and public sector outsourcing, meaning retailers may need to review their policies, procedures and people management practices.
WorkNest has published an on-demand webinar, Preparing for October’s Employment Law Reforms: Your Employer Action Plan, which looks at the 11 key reforms expected to take effect and the practical steps employers should take.
The webinar covers new employer duties and responsibilities, the policies and processes that may need reviewing, management practices that may need updating, and potential legal, operational and commercial risks.
It is designed to help employers understand how the October changes could affect their organisation and identify the actions they should prioritise, with WorkNest's employment law and HR experts providing practical guidance.
WorkNest is also offering an Employment Rights Act Roadmap, setting out what has already changed, what is expected next and when organisations may need to act.
A separate Employment Rights Act 2025 reference sheet focuses specifically on the October 2026 changes, helping employers identify which reforms may affect them and where further review or advice may be needed.
For independent retailers, the resources provide a practical starting point for checking whether employment policies, processes and management practices are ready for the next stage of the Employment Rights Act reforms.
WorkNest is continuing to provide guidance as the reforms develop, helping employers understand their implications and prepare for further changes.
Free advice with Bira Legal
Employment, health, and safety, as well as legal matters, can be complex and time-consuming. In partnership with WorkNest, we offer unlimited expert support, included in your membership.
Employment Rights Act Hub
Stay informed with the most relevant and up-to-date information on the Employment Rights Act, a key piece of legislation for independent retailers.
Image credit: ARAMYAN/stock.adobe.com
Latest News
-
£2,000 grant available to retailers taking on young apprentices
Small and medium-sized retailers taking on young apprentices can receive a £2,000 government payment for each eligible apprentice.
-
Campaign calls for 90 minutes’ free parking on England’s high streets
A Parliamentary petition calling for a national minimum of 90 minutes’ free parking in town and city centres across England has gained momentum.
-
Bira and Toy Retailers Association urge shoppers to buy safe as counterfeit toy investigations rise
Bira has joined forces with the Toy Retailers Association to warn shoppers against buying toys through unregulated online marketplaces.
-
Major report warns stolen goods markets are driving theft - Bira says online platforms must be held to account
Bira has backed a major new report which shows that stolen goods markets are fuelling a surge in shop theft across Britain.