Fit for Work service

The Fit for Work service is scheduled to be introduced throughout England and Wales in 2015 aimed at helping employers and employees manage sickness absence.  This new service provides access to free occupational health assistance for employees who have been absent from work due to illness for a period of four weeks or more.  Employers will be entitled to claim up to £500 tax relief on payments for medical treatment where the employee’s treatment has been recommended under the new service.

Employment Tribunal Awards

On or after the 6 April 2015 the maximum amount of a week’s pay for calculating the basic award of compensation for unfair dismissal will rise to £475.  The maximum compensation award will be capped at £78,335.

Child Age Limit for Parental Leave increases to 18

Parental Leave is the right a parent may exercise to take unpaid leave from work.  Currently open to parents of children under the age of 5, from 5 April 2015 parents of children under the age of 18 and sufficient qualifying service will be eligible.

Time off for Adoption Appointments

The Children and Families Act 2013 will grant a new right to attend adoption appointments.  The primary adoptive parent will be permitted to take time off work to attend up to 5 appointments whilst the secondary adopter will be entitled to take time off for up to 2 appointments.

Statutory Adoption Leave

The Paternity and Adoption Leave Regulations 2014 introduce significant changes with regards to adoption leave and pay.  The removal of the 26 week qualifying period will bring adoption leave entitlement in line with Maternity leave.  Surrogate Parents will also become eligible for Adoption Leave.

Shared Parental Leave & Pay

Parents of children born or placed for adoption on or after 5 April 2015 will benefit from the introduction Shared Parental Leave.  The new regulations aim to give parents greater flexibility regarding caring for their child in its first year.