Rest Break Rights to Feature in New Employment Law
The Employment (Amendment) Bill, currently being drafted by the Department for Enterprise, is expected to introduce new rights around rest breaks for workers.
While the full details are still being finalised, the proposals aim to strengthen worker protections, especially around rest time during and between shifts.
What’s Likely to Change
Statutory Right to Rest Breaks for All Workers
The bill would extend the right to rest breaks to all workers, regardless of employment status. That includes agency workers, casual staff, and others who haven’t always been explicitly covered under previous legislation.
Mandatory Rest Periods Between Shifts
The government is also expected to introduce required rest periods between working shifts, aimed at reducing fatigue and promoting recovery and well-being.
Currently, workers are entitled to a 20-minute break when working over six hours. These new proposals would broaden who is entitled to rest and may also reshape how and when breaks are taken, though the exact timing and frequency have not yet been outlined.
What’s Not Moving Forward (For Now)
Maternity Redundancy Protections
While there was discussion around introducing stronger protections for employees on maternity leave, these changes will not be included in the bill at this stage. The issue remains under review.
Annual Leave Increases
Changes to statutory annual leave are also being considered. While 52% of consultation respondents supported more paid leave, no decisions have been made yet, and changes are unlikely in the immediate term.
What Employers Should Do Now
Even though final details are still pending, it’s a good idea for employers to review their current break policies now. Ensuring your team is able to take regular, meaningful rest breaks is already best practice and soon, it may be a legal requirement too.
Need Help Managing Rest Breaks at Work?
Our DSE team can provide advice on how to structure breaks, comply with existing rules, and support employee well-being with practical, everyday solutions.
Further reading and support are available, just get in touch.