Consultations Launched to Enhance Employment Rights
The UK Government, through the Department for Business and Trade, has initiated consultations to gather insights from businesses and workers on significant employment reforms. Announced on October 23, 2025, by Business Secretary Peter Kyle and Employment Rights Minister Kate Dearden, these reforms aim to modernize workplace rights, focusing on protections for pregnant women, new mothers, bereavement leave, and trade union enhancements.
Strengthening Protections for Pregnant Women and New Mothers
One key reform targets the job security of pregnant women and new mothers. Research indicates that up to 54,000 mothers annually face dismissal, redundancy, or poor treatment at work, compelling them to leave. The proposed legislation will make it illegal to dismiss pregnant women, those on maternity leave, or mothers returning to work for at least six months, except in specific circumstances. The consultation seeks practical feedback on implementing these protections to ensure parents feel secure in their roles.
Introducing Bereavement Leave Rights
The reforms also include provisions for bereavement leave, recognizing the personal impact of losing a loved one, including pregnancy loss before 24 weeks. The government acknowledges that grief affects individuals differently—some may need time away from work, while others may prefer to continue working. Stakeholders are invited to provide input on how to structure this leave to support workers effectively.
Enhancing Trade Union Rights
Additionally, the consultations cover trade union reforms, including a new employer duty to inform workers of their right to join a union and a framework allowing unions to request workplace access. These measures aim to strengthen worker representation and foster collaboration between businesses and unions.
Driving Economic Growth Through Fair Employment
Business Secretary Peter Kyle emphasized that these reforms align with the government’s Plan for Change, aiming to deliver economic growth by ensuring dignity and security at work. He highlighted the importance of partnering with businesses and unions to refine these policies, noting that strong employment rights support a thriving economy.
Employment Rights Minister Kate Dearden underscored the value of happy, well-supported employees in building successful businesses. She encouraged businesses and unions to share their expertise to shape these reforms, which are designed to benefit both workers and employers.
Call for Public and Stakeholder Input
The consultations, launched on October 23, 2025, invite workers, businesses, and other stakeholders to contribute their perspectives. These inputs will help shape a modern workplace that extends robust protections to millions, aligning with the best practices of leading UK companies.
Keyword: Employment Reforms
Meta Description: The UK Government launches consultations on October 23, 2025, to shape new workplace protections for pregnant women, bereavement leave, and trade union rights, aiming to modernize employment laws and boost economic growth.