April 2010 – The right to request time off for training
Children, Skills and Equality Bill 2010
The right to request time to train is the legal right for employees to ask their employer for time off from their mainstream duties to undertake relevant training. The procedures are expected to function in a similar way to flexible working. Note that this will be a right to request time off for training rather than a right to be automatically given time off for training.
April 2010 – The introduction of the ‘Fit Note’
Social Security (Medical Evidence) and Statutory Sick Pay (Medical Evidence) Amendment Regulations 2010
The regulations will introduce a change to the format of the traditional Sick Note. Instead of saying only that the employee is unfit for work, fit notes will also allow doctors to confirm whether employees might be fit for some work if this is an option. The changes are intended to allow doctors to provide employers with the best possible advice to help employees stay at work or to facilitate a swift return to work.
APRIL 2010 – The Extension to Paternity Leave
Work and Families Act 2006
The extension to paternity leave will enable fathers and partners of those giving birth or adopting a child to share the maternity or adoption leave and pay if the mother or adopter returns to work early. The new scheme is intended to take effect for parents of children born or adopted on or after 3rd April 2011.
APRIL 2010 – Amendments to the State Pension
The number of years' contribution required to achieve a full basic state pension reduces to 30 years for both men and women.
APRIL 2010 – The Equalisation of the State Pension Age
Following the gradual increase in the state pension age for women from 60 to 65; The Regulations amend the qualification age for benefits linked to female state pension age.
July & November 2010 – Registration with Independent Safeguarding Authority
The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006
Existing employees that work with children and vulnerable adults must register with the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA). In July 2010 individuals are able to apply for ISA registration to work with children and/or vulnerable adults. Failure to register with the ISA means an individual will not be able to work with children or vulnerable adults. All new employees and those switching jobs must register with the ISA before commencing work with children or vulnerable adults from this date. By November 2010 it will become a legal requirement for anyone applying to work with children and/or vulnerable adults to register with the ISA.
AUTUMN 2010 - The Equality Bill
The Equality Bill will set out new legislation to strengthen and streamline Britain’s anti-Discrimination legislation. The new bill will replace nine pieces of legislation and around 100 other measures relating to discrimination, which will make it easier for individuals and employers to understand their rights and obligations.
The Bill is expected to come into force in Autumn 2010 although this is not yet confirmed.
FURTHER INFORMATION AND SUPPORT:
Further information in respect of forthcoming legislation can be obtained from your HR Department.
For NorthgateArinso clients, our NorthgateArinso HR Outsourcing team are able to provide specific support on implementing new employment legislation within your business. If you would like to discuss any of these new pieces of legislation further, please call the NorthgateArinso Advice Line on 0845 299 0243 who will be happy to help.
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