Guide to:
Fair Work Agency and Enforcement
The ERA creates a new Fair Work Agency – a single government body that brings together the existing enforcement bodies, giving stronger powers to inspect employers, recover underpayments, and penalise those who ignore the law. It also extends the time limits for bringing employment tribunal claims, giving workers longer to enforce their rights.
Explore the guidance below to find out more about what these changes mean for you.
If you’re not already a union member, you can use our Union Finder tool to find out which one would be the best fit.
We also have a useful toolkit to guide you through the key reforms - Employment Rights Act toolkit.
Common
questions
questions
What is the Fair Work Agency and what powers does it have?
The Fair Work Agency (FWA) is the UK's employment rights enforcement body. Its purpose is to protect workers, support fair competition and help ensure employers comply with employment law.
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Can the Fair Work Agency bring cases on behalf of workers or provide legal support?
Yes. One of the most significant powers of the Fair Work Agency (FWA) is its ability to take action on behalf of workers, rather than relying solely on individuals to enforce their own rights through the employment tribunal system.
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