Thornfield's "Updating your HR Skills" course has never been more important, and with all of the recent legislation changes that are coming into force, now is the best time to upskill your staff. 

Employment law rarely stands still, so for GP practices, already navigating workforce shortages, rising demand and operational pressures, any changes can bring new responsibilities, risks and opportunities which Practice Managers need to be aware of.

Most of the changes stem from the Employment Rights Act 2025, delivered as part of the government’s Plan to Make Work Pay. They are being introduced in phases across 2026 and 2027, with a substantial number already in force this April.

Why this matters for your Practice?

As a small to medium‑sized employer, often with a lean management structure. Employment law changes can have a disproportionate impact, especially where:

• staff work part‑time or variable hours
• teams rely on flexible cover
• managers wear multiple hats (HR included)

Many of the new rules introduce day‑one rights, increased financial penalties, and stronger enforcement - leaving little margin for error.

You can read about the key employment law changes in our recent article here. 

What’s coming next

Later in 2026 and 2027, further reforms are planned, including:

• expanded trade union access rights
• stronger duties to prevent sexual harassment
• major changes to unfair dismissal qualifying periods

Even if these aren’t yet in force, now is the time to prepare, especially by upskilling those with HR responsibility.

How our “Updating your HR skills” workshop can help

Our Updating your HR skills workshop is designed specifically for GP Practice Managers and senior admin staff who need:

• a clear, practical understanding of current employment law
• confidence in applying the rules day to day
• reassurance that their policies and practices are fit for purpose

If you’re responsible for people management in your practice, then now is the time to refresh your HR knowledge.