Are your probation processes ready for 2027?

    3rd Nov 2026

    Unfair Dismissal Claims After Just Six Months’ Service? 

    From 1 January 2027, employees will be able to bring an unfair dismissal claim after just six months’ service. Businesses that do not have a robust probation review process in place could face significant employee relations and legal risks.

    For employers, this means that ineffective probation management could expose the business to greater legal and employee relations risks far earlier than ever before. 

    Ask Yourself: 

    • Do you have a formal probation process in place? 
    • Are probation reviews completed consistently? 
    • Are performance and conduct concerns identified early? 
    • Are review meetings documented and retained? 
    • Can you demonstrate a fair and reasonable process if challenged? 

    If the answer to any of these questions is “no”, now is the time to act. 

    Why Effective Probation Management Matters 

    A well-structured probation process helps employers: 

    • Set clear expectations from day one. 
    • Monitor performance and conduct fairly and consistently. 
    • Identify issues early and provide appropriate support. 
    • Maintain accurate records of discussions and outcomes. 
    • Make informed employment decisions before unfair dismissal protection applies. 

    Written by Lucy Williams FCILEx
    Head of Employment Law & Human Resources at Key Group Services Ltd

    LinkedIn

    More

    You may also be interested in...

    As you are aware, the world of employment law can be a treacherous one. Employment tribunals offer us a peak into how a company may fall foul of the law in unexpected ways. One such case has recently come to a conclusion, which highlights the pit falls a company may unknowingly walk into. The case […]

    Read more

    Fire door inspections are systematic checks carried out to ensure that fire doors and their components (e.g. frame, seals, glazing, hinges, closers and signage) are present, in good working order and capable of performing their intended function in the event of a fire. A compliant fire door should resist fire and smoke for a specified […]

    Read more

    A Permit to Work (PTW) system is a formal, written control process used to manage high‑risk, non‑routine or hazardous activities. It provides documented authorisation for specific work to proceed, confirms that hazards have been identified and controlled, and ensures that all relevant parties understand the conditions under which work may be carried out. Example of […]

    Read more

    Asbestos refers to a group of naturally occurring fibrous silicate minerals that were used extensively across the UK until the late 20th century for fire protection, insulation, and durability until their prohibition in 1999. ACMs remain common in the built environment including homes, schools, hospitals, public buildings, industrial premises, and plant rooms, and any building […]

    Read more

    Take the next step to protect your business.

    Book a free consultation or call 01443 740306 to speak with an accredited advisor.

    Book a Consultation