There are many changes coming this year that employers should be mindful of. For example changes to the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage, Flexible working, and Maternity and Paternity Leave.
We will discuss these changes in detail below.
National Living Wage/National Minimum Wage
From the 1st April the National Living Wage age band will include workers aged 21 and over.
Rates will increase as follows:
For people aged 21 and over- £11.44 (from £10.42)
18-20- £8.60 (from £7.49)
16-17- £6.40 (from £5.28)
Apprentice rate- £6.40 (from £5.28)
It’s important for employees to be aware of these changes to pay to avoid any issues in the future. It is against the law for an employer to pay less than the National Minimum Wage. Employers could be fined if they are not paying their employees at least the minimum wage.
Statutory Leave and Sick Pay
From April, the statutory leave and pay, including maternity, paternity, adoption, shared parental, and parental bereavement will increase to £184.03 (from £172.48) or 90% of your average weekly earnings (whichever is lower).
The rate for sick pay will also increase to £116.75 (from £109.40).
Changes to Holiday
For holiday years starting from the 1st April 2024, holiday entitlement for part-year and irregular hour workers can be calculated by taking 12.07% of hours worked in that pay period.
Flexible Working
From the 6th April 2024, the requirement to have at least 26 weeks service before making a flexible working request will be removed.
The Workers (Predictable Terms and Conditions) Act 2023 are expected to come into force in September 2024. This Act will give workers the right to request more predictable terms and conditions of work.
Other Upcoming Changes
Other changes such as The Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Act and changes to Paternity Leave will come into effect later in the year. We will continue to update you on these changes once more information has been released.
📢If you need advice, contact one of our team on 01935 411191 or email enquiries@rbhr.co.uk for a free initial consultation phone call. 📢