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Trade union reform and workplace access rights: Q&A discussion

15 October 2026
The Employment Rights Act reforms represent one of the most significant changes to UK industrial relations in recent years. In this Q&A discussion, employment law partners Ann Frances Cooney and Kate Meadowcroft explore the wider package of trade union reforms and consider what they mean for employers in practice.

The discussion covers the changing industrial relations landscape, proposed reforms to trade union recognition processes, and the new statutory right of access, including the practical and legal considerations organisations should be thinking about now. Our experts also share insights into the steps employers can take to prepare for increased union activity, manage access requests effectively and develop a proactive employee relations strategy.

Topics covered include:

  • The wider trade union reforms and their impact on employers
  • Changes to statutory recognition processes
  • The new trade union right of access
  • Physical and digital access arrangements
  • Practical considerations for responding to access requests
  • Preparing managers, HR teams and internal processes
  • Developing an effective industrial relations strategy

Watch now for an overview of the key changes and the practical actions employers should be considering ahead of implementation.


Further Reading