Trade Unions

Numerous trade union reforms will be introduced during 2026 and 2027, starting with the repeal of the Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Act 2023 which took effect on 18 December 2025 (the date that the Employment Rights Bill received Royal Assent).

18 February 2026:

• the time needed to give notice of industrial action will be reduced from 14 days to 10 days
• unions will need a simple majority of those eligible members who participate in the vote
• picket supervisors will no longer be required
• mandates for industrial action will last for 12 months, instead of 6 months
• ballot and action notices are to be simplified
• political fund rules will changed
• dismissal for taking part in industrial action will be automatically unfair, removing the 12-week limit for claiming unfair dismissal
• repeal of changes to public sector check off
• repeal of changes to facility time

April 2026:

• simplifying how a trade union can gain recognition in a workplace, which gives them the right to collectively bargain
• removal of the requirement for a 50% turnout for industrial action ballots – this will take effect on a date to set out in a commencement order, expected to be April 2026, although this is not yet confirmed

No earlier than August 2026:

• electronic and workplace balloting for statutory trade union ballots

October 2026:

• a new duty for employers to inform workers of their right to join a trade union
• updated rules on a trade union's right of access to the workplace
• protection against detriment for those taking part in industrial action
• a new right to reasonable accommodation and facilities for trade union representatives carrying out their duties
• a new right to time off for union equality representatives to carry out their duties

There is an Acas consultation about trade union duties and activities which is open now and closes on 17 March 2026. You can access it, and take part here.

2027:

• extending laws that protect trade union members from discrimination and being 'blacklisted'
• a new industrial relations framework, to help employers and trade unions work together