The Good Work Plan: upcoming employment law changes in April 2020 and beyond
Described as ‘the biggest shake-up of employment law in a generation’, the government‘s Good Work Plan is an extensive programme of employment law reforms. They have come about in response to the massive growth in the use of casual working and self-employment arrangements.
Flexibility is still seen as key for businesses and so won’t be restricted. However, the changes aim to provide greater clarity on the terms of engagement and make it easier for individuals to understand and enforce their rights.
April 6 2020 is when many of these changes will come into effect. Despite this, research recently published by Citation has indicated that one-third of employers are still unaware of the Good Work Plan, and many are not prepared for the changes.
Every single sector in the UK will be affected, but they are particularly important for the care sector due to the prevalence of flexible working.
So what do care providers need to know?
The Skills For Care Report published in October 2018 indicated that one-quarter of carers are currently on a zero-hour contract. In addition, many individuals working in the care sector will work hours that vary week to week and without a stable contract.
A core focus of the Good Work Plan is working to address employment rights for those working without employee status and for workers without fixed hours.
Through introducing state enforcement of these rights for ‘vulnerable workers’ (yet to be defined), the changes seek to improve the enforcement of employment rights – especially pay and holiday entitlement.
Due to a series of court decisions on commission payments and overtime in recent years, the rules on what should be included in holiday pay have changed.
The Good Work Plan will extend the right to a statutory statement of main terms to all workers, requiring this to be made available by the first day of work, as well as introducing a list of additional information which must be provided.
Another significant change in the reforms is allowing some workers the right to request a stable contract. Individuals who are happy to work varied hours each week will be able to continue doing so. But from April 2020, carers who would like more certainty about their hours will be able to request a fixed working pattern from their employer.
Citation acknowledges that The Good Work Plan is confusing and complex. Managers and employers in the social care sector wishing to know more should download the white paper, produced by HR and employment law experts and buyacarehome.com partner, Citation. It clarifies all the major changes and what they mean for both employers and employees.
Got any questions about how you’ll be affected?
For all your questions about The Good Work Plan, call Citation’s friendly experts today on 0345 844 1111 and they’ll be happy to help, or get in touch here – just mention you’re from buyacarehome.com when enquiring.
Plus, for more content that breaks down the different elements of The Good Work Plan, you can also visit citation.co.uk/good-work-plan. It hosts best practice advice and guidance, such as a video on defining employment status and an article summarising the upcoming changes.
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Please get in touch by calling 0345 844 1111, or by leaving your details here – just mention you’re from buyacarehome.com when enquiring.
