| W.E.U Admin | Workplace Wellbeing
Here is a concise overview of the key employment law changes introduced by the UK Government and Acas between 2017 and 2018. These updates affect employers, employees, and HR professionals across all sectors. For more detailed guidance, explore our comprehensive timeline.
Employment Legislation Changes in 2017–2018
Trade Union Act
Trade Union Act reforms the rules on trade union ballots for industrial action. Its main provisions include:
- 50% turnout threshold for a valid industrial action ballot.
- 40% support requirement from all members in key sectors.
- Four-month validity for authorising industrial action.
Effective date: March 2017
Gender Pay Gap Reporting
To tackle the gender pay gap, large organisations must now publish:
- The difference in hourly earnings between male and female employees.
- The gap in bonus pay.
These reports are publicly accessible and aim to increase workplace transparency.
More on Acas Gender Pay Gap Reporting
Effective date: April 2017
Apprenticeship Levy
Employers with an annual wage bill over £3 million must pay a new levy to fund apprenticeship schemes UK-wide. This applies across both public and private sectors.
Details on the Apprenticeship Levy
Effective date: April 2017
National Minimum Wage & National Living Wage
Hourly rates for both the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage increased in April 2017. Future adjustments occur every April.
Effective date: April 2017
The Immigration Skills Charge Regulations 2017
Under Tier 2 sponsorship, employers now pay £1,000 per certificate for skilled workers. Employers should maintain a thorough paper trail to prove right-to-work checks.
Effective date: April 2017
Fit for Work Service Changes
In England and Wales, no new referrals accepted from December 2017, with ongoing cases handled until 31 March 2018. In Scotland, service ends on 31 March 2018 (new referral status TBC). All regions retain telephone advice, webchat, email support, and online resources.
Service closure dates: December 2017 (new referrals), March 2018 (complete closure)
Childcare Voucher Scheme Closure
The salary-sacrifice scheme for childcare vouchers closes to new entrants on 6 April 2018. Existing participants continue under current arrangements. The new tax-free childcare scheme requires employees to apply directly.
Effective date: April 2018
General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR)
Employers must audit all personal employee data to ensure compliance with GDPR. The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) recommends following a 12-step preparation plan.
Preparing for the GDPR – 12 Steps (PDF)
Effective date: May 2018
Statutory Payments – Rate Changes
| Payment Type | April 2017 | April 2018 |
|---|---|---|
| Maternity/Paternity/Adoption | £140.98 | £145.18 |
| Statutory Sick Pay | £89.35 | £92.05 |
| Lower Earnings Threshold | £113.00 | £116.00 |
| National Living Wage | £7.50 | £7.83 |
| National Minimum Wage (21–24 yrs) | £7.05 | £7.38 |
| National Minimum Wage (18–20 yrs) | £5.60 | £5.90 |
| National Minimum Wage (16–17 yrs) | £4.05 | £4.20 |
| Apprentice Rate | £3.50 | £3.70 |
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This Article is Tagged under:
Legislation, Updates
