Employment Rights Bill Voucher: What it means for SMEs and how to prepare

Could your business soon receive free HR support to deal with new employment laws?

The UK Government is reportedly reviewing a new initiative called the Employment Rights Bill Voucher. If introduced, this scheme would provide free or subsidised access to professional HR advice for small businesses—helping employers navigate the biggest employment law reform in over a decade.

This proposed measure aims to support SMEs in understanding and complying with the Employment Rights Bill, which is expected to take effect from early 2026.

What is the Employment Rights Bill Voucher?

In simple terms, the Employment Rights Bill Voucher is a government-funded HR support scheme currently under consideration. It would allow small business owners to access expert HR consultancy services at no cost or a reduced rate.

Services covered could include:

• Reviewing and updating contracts, policies, and handbooks
• Preparing for new statutory rights (e.g., flexible working, sick pay)
• Advice on redundancy, dismissal and changing employment terms
• Support with compliance under the new Bill
• Training for line managers on fair practice and communication

While the scheme has not yet been formally announced, trusted outlets like City A.M. and Yahoo Finance report that it’s being seriously explored.

What’s changing under the Employment Rights Bill?

The Employment Rights Bill will bring significant changes to how UK businesses manage their people. Key reforms include:

• Day-one rights to statutory sick pay and flexible working
• Ban on fire-and-rehire tactics during contract changes
• Stronger protections during redundancy for new parents and carers
• More robust union rights and protections for whistleblowers
• A potential rise in tribunal claims if employers fail to adapt

Whether or not the voucher scheme is introduced, these legal reforms are expected to be phased in from 2026.

How the Employment Rights Bill Voucher would help SMEs

If confirmed, the voucher could be a game-changer for SMEs that lack internal HR teams. It could provide:

• Cost-saving access to HR expertise
• Tailored advice specific to your business and workforce
• Peace of mind around legal compliance
• Proactive support to implement change with confidence

At Kingswood Group, we understand that legal updates can feel overwhelming for busy owners. A government-backed HR voucher scheme would ensure employers don’t have to face it alone.

How to prepare Now – with or without a voucher

Even before any government scheme launches, it’s important to start preparing for the new rules. Here’s how:

1. Review your current employment contracts and staff handbook
2. Audit flexible and remote working arrangements
3. Ensure your redundancy procedures are fair and well-documented
4. Plan for the financial impact of day-one statutory sick pay
5. Train line managers on employment law basics and handling requests

You don’t need to wait for official confirmation—early preparation means reduced risk and smoother implementation later on.

How impact HR Can Help

We work with small and growing businesses across the UK, providing practical HR advice and legally compliant solutions—without jargon or overwhelm.

Whether or not the Employment Rights Bill Voucher is confirmed, Kingswood can:

• Audit and update your contracts, handbooks, and HR policies
• Support managers through upcoming changes
• Provide ongoing outsourced HR support for a fixed monthly cost
• Help you plan ahead and avoid costly mistakes