Changes in law to look out for in April 2011…

April brings MANY changes in Employment Legislation, here is a snapshot of some of the changes to expect however our Employment Department will be happy to talk through all and any aspects of the changes and what they mean to you as an Employee or Employer.

Maternity, Paternity & Adoption pay increases

As of the 11^th April weekly Statutory pay will be increased from £124.88 to £128.73

Additional Paternity Leave & Pay

New mothers can transfer up to 6 months maternity leave to fathers as of 3^rd April 2011

Statutory Sick Pay increased

From 6^th April 2011 statutory sick pay will increase from £79.15 to £81.60

Increase in basic state pension

11 April 2011 will see State pensions increase from £97.65 to £102.15

Default retirement age is to be phased out-

As of the 6^th April 2011 any retirement dismissed may be contrary to s.13 of the Equality Act 2010 for Age Discrimination.

NB: Employers cannot prohibit job applicants from applying for a job if they are within six months of being 65 or aged 65 or over.

Annual limit of 20,700 migrants (under Tier 2 General) entering the UK

As of the 6^th April 2011 these changes will come into force, please visit  Home Office for further details and how this may affect you.

Section 159 of the Equality Act 2010- Positive action provisions

Provisions come into force as of 6^th April 2011 permitting employers to treat applicants with a protected characteristic more favourably

Equality Act Codes of Practice

From the 6^th April 2011 the Equality Act brings into force the codes of practice on employment, equal pay and public functions and associations.

Don’t be caught out by the changes that are coming into force as of April 2011. For all enquiries please contact Rebecca Hardy or book in for our free hour consultation.