Are there transitional arrangements for workers who were employed before the new rules take effect?

Yes. The new unfair dismissal rules will apply not only to new employees but also to many people who are already in employment when the changes come into force. 

From 1 January 2027, the reduced six-month qualifying period for ordinary unfair dismissal will apply to dismissals taking place on or after that date. Employees who already have at least six months' continuous service when the new rules begin will gain protection immediately. 

Existing employees will not have to start their qualifying period again. Their continuous service before 1 January 2027 will count towards the new six-month qualifying period. 

What this means for union reps 

• Existing employees may gain unfair dismissal protection sooner than they would have under the previous two-year qualifying period. 
• Reps should be aware that members who previously had limited protection may become eligible to bring unfair dismissal claims once the new rules take effect. 
• Employers will need to review dismissal, probation and performance-management procedures, as a much larger group of employees will be covered by unfair dismissal protection.