Six-month unfair dismissal right to begin from 2027

The UK government plans to enhance protections against unfair dismissal with a six-month qualifying period starting January 2027, down from the original proposal to remove the two-year requirement. This change comes after negotiations with business groups and ministers. The original plan to introduce a probation period has been shelved, with this U-turn receiving mixed reactions from stakeholders. Additionally, new rights to sick pay and paternity leave are set to be introduced from April 2026.