Thinking about changing jobs? Your workplace rights are about to improve
Thousands of workers look to change jobs every week in search of better pay, career progression or improved working conditions. Until now, many have accepted that doing so meant waiting up to two years before qualifying for ordinary unfair dismissal protection.
That position is changing.
The UK Government has confirmed that from 1 January 2027, the qualifying period for ordinary unfair dismissal claims is expected to reduce to six months, significantly shortening the time many workers will need to build up this important employment protection.
For anyone considering changing employers during the coming months, understanding how these reforms could affect future employment decisions has never been more important.
Why workers should be paying attention
Changing jobs can be one of the biggest career decisions a person makes.
While a new role may offer improved pay, better working hours or greater opportunities, it has often involved accepting a lengthy period before ordinary unfair dismissal rights became available.
The forthcoming changes are designed to reduce that waiting period, giving workers greater confidence when making career moves and encouraging fair workplace practices much earlier in the employment relationship.
What should workers do now?
Although the reforms do not take effect until January 2027, workers considering a move should continue to:
- Read employment contracts carefully before accepting a role.
- Understand any probationary period and performance expectations.
- Keep copies of contracts, policies and important workplace communications.
- Raise concerns promptly if workplace issues arise.
- Familiarise themselves with their existing day-one employment rights, which continue to apply regardless of length of service in many situations.
Important to remember
The reduction to a six-month qualifying period does not prevent employers from managing performance, addressing misconduct or ending employment where there is a lawful and fair reason.
Equally, some important workplace protections already apply from the first day of employment, including protections relating to discrimination, whistleblowing, certain health and safety matters and pregnancy.
Understanding the difference between these rights is essential for every worker.
The Workers Union says
Employment law continues to evolve, and workers should ensure they understand how upcoming changes may affect future career decisions.
While the reforms will not remove every risk associated with changing jobs, earlier access to ordinary unfair dismissal protection represents a significant improvement in workplace security for many employees.
Workers who are considering changing employers over the next year should keep informed as further implementation guidance is published ahead of January 2027.
