September HR Hub: ​​What Employers Really Think About the Employment Rights Bill and Third-Party Harassment

At our September 2025 HR Hub, delivered in partnership with RWK Goodman, we focused on some of the biggest employment law changes currently on the horizon - particularly the new Employment Rights Bill (ERB) and evolving obligations around harassment.

During the session, we asked attendees for their perspectives. Here’s what we learned.

How Are HR Leaders Feeling About the ERB?

We asked: “How do you feel about the ERB?”

• 52% said: “Not overly worried – don’t think it will change much.”
• 37% said: “Slightly worried as so much is unknown.”
• 8% said: “Very worried – it will change a lot of my HR practice.”
• 3% said: “Not worried at all – don’t think much of it will happen.”

This shows most HR professionals are not unduly concerned right now, but significant uncertainty remains. With measures such as day-one unfair dismissal rights and stronger harassment protections due to come in from 2026–27, it’s clear HR teams need to stay proactive.

Third-Party Harassment: Are Employers Taking Action?

We asked: “Have you taken steps to avoid the risk of third-party harassment?” (Tick all that apply)

• 52% have updated policies
• 42% have refreshed staff training
• 22% have completed a risk assessment
• 7% have added signage
• 6% have reviewed commercial agreements
• 29% said they haven’t done anything yet

With immigration reforms tightening salary thresholds and increasing sponsorship costs, it’s significant that more than half of employers in Oxfordshire already hold a licence, with more planning to follow suit.

Sponsor Licence Holders: Where Do Employers Stand?

Finally, we asked: “Are you a sponsor licence holder?”

• 57% said Yes
• 36% said No
• 7% said No, but thinking about it

This is a telling result, especially for a regional market like Oxfordshire. With talent shortages affecting a range of sectors, over half of HR professionals are already engaging internationally via the sponsor licence scheme. The number of those considering it also suggests a growing awareness of overseas recruitment as a potential solution to skills gaps.

Final Thoughts

The poll results show cautious optimism: many employers feel steady for now but recognise the need for preparation. With wide-reaching reforms and practical changes on the way, HR teams will need to stay on top of compliance while supporting their organisations through change.

At Allen Associates, we’ll continue to partner with HR professionals and business leaders to translate insight into action - whether that’s updating policies, rethinking recruitment, or preparing for future reforms.

Save the Date

Our next HR Hub will be on Thursday, 16th October, focusing on The Hidden Mental Health Crisis in HR with Dr Jo Burrell. You can find out more about the session and register here.