The government has unveiled new guidance to help employers prepare for sweeping changes to employment law, as ministers seek to ease the transition to stronger workplace protections coming into force from April.

The support follows the passage of the Employment Rights Act 2025 and is aimed at helping the UK’s 1.4m employers understand and implement reforms over a two-year rollout period. Officials say the measures are designed to strengthen job security while supporting business growth and workforce stability.

Companies are being directed to a new online hub offering free practical advice, including timelines, summaries of legal changes and recommended actions. The guidance is intended to help employers comply with new rules and avoid disruption as the reforms are introduced in stages.

From April, statutory sick pay will become payable from the first day of absence, while new “day one” rights for parental and paternity leave will also take effect. Further measures will follow later in the implementation period.

The changes form part of the government’s wider “Plan to Make Work Pay”, which aims to modernise labour market regulation and improve standards across sectors.

Kate Dearden, the employment rights minister, said the reforms were central to the government’s growth strategy.

“Creating a modern, fair and dynamic labour market is central to our plan for growth,” she said. “Through clear guidance, we are giving businesses the practical support they need to get these changes right first time.”

She added that improving security and fairness at work would help boost productivity and staff retention, strengthening long-term economic performance.

Ministers say nearly 350 engagements with businesses have already taken place during the development of the policy, with further consultation planned as implementation progresses. Officials argue that ongoing dialogue has helped shape both the reforms and the support being offered.

Additional assistance will be provided through Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service, which is working with sector bodies to help employers adapt.

Niall Mackenzie, chief executive of Acas, said the organisation would play a central role in supporting firms.

“For over 50 years, Acas has been a trusted, impartial expert on employment relations,” he said. “We have advice, webinars and training available to help everyone prepare and will continue updating these as the new laws are implemented.”

Business groups have broadly welcomed the provision of clearer guidance, while warning that smaller firms in particular will need practical support to manage compliance costs and administrative demands.

The government argues that gradual implementation and free access to advice will limit disruption and encourage early adoption. Officials say the reforms are intended not only to raise minimum standards, but also to help employers build more resilient and productive workforces.

Further details on the changes and support measures are expected to be published in the coming months as the rollout continues.