The next HR Forum will be looking ahead to help attendees plan for the possible future workforce changes, following the Bill put forward by the Deputy Prime Minister, recently.
The Labour government announced significant proposed major changes through its ‘Make Work Pay’ legislation, which could have profound implications for businesses across Lancashire. It is estimated that the cost to business, to satisfy the new requirements, could be in the region of £5bn.
Even though these changes have yet to go through the Parliamentary process, businesses are being advised to start thinking about what they could mean, and preparing for change.
As we look ahead to Summer 2026, many employers might breathe a sigh of relief, thinking they have plenty of time to prepare for upcoming changes. However, this period presents a unique opportunity – the gift of time to get ahead of the curve.
The direction is clear, and three key priorities are emerging for the future of HR and workforce management:
- Good Selection Practices: Getting recruitment right from the start will be more critical than ever. Employers must focus on both legal protection and ensuring they attract the best talent from the outset.
- Probation Periods: These will need to be handled with extra care. The importance of monitoring performance and addressing issues early on will become a crucial part of protecting your business.
- Line Manager Development: Line managers will play a pivotal role in supporting new hires and managing teams effectively. It’s time to ensure they are equipped with the skills and strategies needed from Day One.
The government has indicated that amendments to the Bill could occur during its legislative process, depending on the feedback received from consultations. This presents a vital opportunity for you, as an event attendee, to feedback directly via the Chamber, to shape the legislation and mitigate any potential negative impacts on our member businesses.
It is crucial for the business community to voice its concerns and insights regarding how this proposed legislation could affect your organisation.
Two years may seem like plenty of time, but establishing the right behaviours and systems now is key.
Join us at the HR Forum and use this time wisely to ensure that your business is prepared for these changes when they come, to minimise impact once they become law.