Employment Rights Act could be the biggest disruption for small businesses, says Gi Group

Dan Challis (pictured), group sales director at Gi Group, said the Employment Rights Act could be the biggest disruption yet for small businesses relying on flexible workers. 

He said many are already seeing changes in how they hire and manage staff. 

Challis said: “When it comes to the leading catalyst for adaptation across our industry, in how we support and advise our customers and candidates, the ERB has caused the biggest waves this year so far. 

“From preparation for statutory sick pay reform, changes to probation and dismissal risk, to potentially major updates to flexible labour models and zero-hours arrangements, businesses will be impacted – especially those reliant on flexible, part-time and temporary workers. 

“It means identifying and implementing the perfect hire or hires has never been more important.”

Challis added: “As recruitment experts, embedded within our customers’ business, we are in constant ‘adapt, change, thrive, repeat’ mode. 

“We’ve navigated many challenges throughout this time – skills shortages, rapid tech advancements and hikes in national insurance. 

“Such major economic tailwinds are felt first and foremost in the labour market – we are the litmus paper, the big red light indicator, when the economy is thriving or down turning.”