UK employment law in February 2026: Legal changes people professionals need to know
This month: Wave of Employment Rights Act 2025 consultations released and what it means for you
Explore the resources you need to comply with changes to right of access, balloting and protections for trade union reps under the Employment Rights Act 2025
The Employment Rights Act 2025 will introduce a range of changes to trade union and industrial action law, including repeals of existing legislation, new protections for workers and union representatives, and reforms to recognition and balloting processes. This page brings together the resources and information you need to understand what’s changing, when it’s happening and how to comply with the changes.
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Explore resources to help you comply with law changes and work effectively with trade unions.
Please note, these resources outlines the current legislation that governs trade unions and should still be followed until any changes come into force (expected dates are outlined on the Employment Rights Act 2025 tracker). We will update the content once any changes are enforced.
Advice on how to work effectively with trade unions
Guidance on working with trade unions
Overview of current legal requirements relating to trade unions
Employment law information on trade unions
This report explores employer and employee perspectives on trade union representation and relations
UK industrial relations: A future with trade unionsCo-created by Acas and CIPD: learn to build constructive relationships with trade unions and embed effective partnership approaches into your organisation
Working effectively with trade unions learning coursePlease note: While every care has been taken in compiling this content, CIPD cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. These notes are not intended to be a substitute for specific legal advice.
Use the tracker to keep up to date with latest timeline and developments
This month: Wave of Employment Rights Act 2025 consultations released and what it means for you
Explore our collection of resources around legal issues relating to whistleblowing in the workplace
Get the tools and resources that help you stay compliant with the changes to collective consultation during redundancy
Explore our collection of resources around legal issues relating to whistleblowing in the workplace
Get the tools and resources that help you stay compliant with the changes to collective consultation during redundancy
Legality of sanctioning workers who strike
Keep up to date with what is changing under the Employment Rights Act 2025, the Equality (Race and Disability) Bill and the plan to Make Work Pay