New Workplace Equality Rights Come into Force Today

The biggest change to UK Employment Legislation in over decade comes into force today.....The new Equality Act.

UK Equalities Minister Theresa May claims the new anti-discrimination rules will make it easier for businesses to comply but several business groups disagree, claiming the the new legislation will impose a heavy burden on employers, both in terms of time and cost.

Abigail Morris from the British Chambers of Commerce told the BBC. "The government's own impact assessment shows that this is going to cost £190m just for businesses to understand the legislation, and this at a time when we really need them to be concentrating on creating private sector jobs and driving economic recovery."

The potential increase in costs to business doesn't stop with today's introduction of the new Equality Act.......Minimum Wages also increase today!

£5.80 to £5.93 an hour for workers aged 21 and over

£4.83 to £4.92 an hour for workers aged 18 to 20

£3.57 to £3.64 an hour for workers aged 16 to 17

The rise is around the two per cent mark in each category.

If you require further clarification on how the new Equality Act impacts your business or on the national minimum wage please call us today on 0800 612 4772.