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ARTICLE · 16 OCTOBER 2026

ERA 2025 Checklist: October Reforms

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The Employment Rights Act 2025 introduces sweeping changes to UK employment law taking effect in October 2026, fundamentally altering how employers manage workplace disputes, union relations, and harassment prevention. From extended tribunal time limits to mandatory trade union workplace access, these reforms will reshape employer obligations and employee protections across nearly every aspect of the employment relationship.

United KingdomEmployment and HR
David Mills
David Mills

Several important Employment Rights Act (ERA) changes to employment law are expected in October 2026. This briefing summarises the key developments and practical steps employers can take now.

The briefing is split into two sections: universal changes for all employers and trade union changes for employers with recognised unions or likely union engagement.

If you would like to discuss these changes or how to prepare, please speak to your usual Mills & Reeve employment contact or David Mills. For more on the wider reforms, visit our ERA hub.

Universal changes

Extension of ET time limits – in force 1 October 2026

What is the change?

  • Time limits for filing most employment tribunal claims will be extended from three months to six months.

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