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ARTICLE · 05 NOVEMBER 2026

Employment Rights Act: Key Trade Union Changes Taking Effect From October 2026

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They form part of the Government's wider programme of employment law reform and are intended to strengthen trade union rights while providing a clearer framework for workplace engagement and representation. However, some of the proposed changes have been delayed.

United KingdomEmployment and HR
David Hutchison
David Hutchison

30 October 2026 marks the implementation of the much-anticipated changes to trade union rights set out in the Employment Rights Act 2025.

They form part of the Government's wider programme of employment law reform and are intended to strengthen trade union rights while providing a clearer framework for workplace engagement and representation. However, some of the proposed changes have been delayed.

What are the changes to Trade Union rights?

Both trade unions and employers should be aware of the new and amended rights coming into force. The measures span several areas of workplace relations and are designed to support greater engagement between workers, employers and trade unions.

These rights include:

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