Roots HR ERA Updates 2026

Advise on changing policies

We have outlined three policies that will be revised in accordance with the Employment Rights Act 2025. The April 2026 changes are highlighted in yellow within the policies.

Employers should ensure these policies are updated to comply with the new regulations prior to their implementation in April 2026. Existing policies may be amended to include the relevant new provisions detailed below, or employers may opt to replace them entirely with the policies provided.

It is advisable for employers to notify employees of these policy changes and allow sufficient time for staff to raise any enquiries regarding the updates.

Changes to the policies:

Family Leave

• Paternity Leave is now a day 1 right
• Ordinary Parental Leave is now a day 1 right

If you have not updated your family leave policy since last year:

• A new statutory right was introduced in April 2025 for Neo-natal care leave and pay
• Notification requirements and rules on paternity leave changed in April 2024

Sickness Absence

• SSP is now a day 1 right (no more 3 waiting days)
• There is no longer a minimum earning requirement
• SSP is paid at either the fixed statutory rate or 80% of weekly average earnings, whichever is lower.

Whistleblowing

• Acts of Sexual Harassment is now a qualifying disclosure