In Great Britain, important 2026 changes include statutory sick pay being available from the first day of sickness, with the lower earnings limit removed, from 6 April. National Minimum Wage rates also changed in April, so check your age and pay band on GOV.UK. Further Employment Rights Act reforms are being introduced in stages, including changes affecting unfair dismissal, flexible working and zero-hours contracts, with dates depending on the specific measure. Northern Ireland has separate employment rules, so check nidirect.gov.uk if you work there.