From 1 January 2027, the qualifying period for unfair dismissal claims will reduce from two years to six months, fundamentally changing how employers manage new recruits.
If you’ve recruited employees who started from 1 July 2026 onwards, they’ll be among the first affected by the new rules. Now is the time to review your probation, performance management, and decision-making processes to ensure your business is prepared.
Many employers are understandably unsure what these changes mean in practice, how to manage probation effectively, and what steps they need to take to reduce the risk of unfair dismissal claims.
To help you prepare with confidence, we’re hosting a free webinar with our HR experts.
Unfair Dismissal Rights Are Changing – is your business ready?
From 1 January 2027, employees will be be able to claim unfair dismissal after just six months’ service instead of two years. If you’ve recruited employees who started from 1 July 2026 onwards, these changes could affect your business from day one of the new legislation.
Our free, expert-led webinar will give business owners, HR managers and people leaders the practical guidance they need to prepare. You’ll learn how the new rules affect your organisation, how to manage probation periods effectively, and the steps you should take to reduce the risk of unfair dismissal claims.
We know these changes can seem daunting. That’s why our HR experts will cut through the legal jargon, providing clear, practical advice you can apply immediately to strengthen your processes and protect your business.
EXCELLENT
Based on 41 reviews
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Liz LTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
The team at Access 2 HR are great, supportive, very knowledgeable and patient. It is comforting to know they are only a phone call away. Thank you for your continued support. You rock!Posted on Google![]()
Paul MartinTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I would highly recommend this HR company to any business looking for reliable, practical and professional HR support. They provide excellent advice that helps us reduce risk, handle situations fairly, and ensure we remain aligned with both employment law and our internal policies. They also keep our staff handbook and employment contracts up to date with any legal changes, which gives us real peace of mind. The team are always available at the end of the phone, whether that’s for detailed guidance, reassurance on a tricky situation, or support with more complex employee matters. For more complicated cases, they are also able to take over case management for an additional fee, which has been incredibly valuable and has freed up a lot of my time when needed. Friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely supportive — they feel like an extension of our business, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them.Posted on Google![]()
Adam EllisTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Tracey and Melissa were both fantastic in supporting us with our recruitment process. Communication was excellent, and outputs were delivered quickly.Posted on Google![]()
Jonathon QuinnTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Tracey and the team has been excellent helping my business improve its HR. Tracey even came out and did a tutorial on the software which goes live soon and the employees are really enjoying navigating it. Thanks so much guys 5 Stars!Posted on Google![]()
Colin LangTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Following acquisition we have moved to an internal HR platform and ending a seven year relationship with Access2HR. During this time the team have been on hand to provide help and guidance when required and have worked as an extension of the team. It’s been a pleasure working with them and would not hesitate to recommend to other businesses. Thanks againPosted on Google![]()
Martin TruscottTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
As we transition to an internal HR solution after five years of working together, we want to extend our thanks to Tracey and the entire team at Access2HR. The support we have received has been invaluable. You have consistently provided expert advice, practical solutions, and a calm, reassuring presence – always there when we needed you most. Your guidance has helped us navigate numerous complex and challenging situations with confidence and clarity. It has been an absolute pleasure working with you, and your contribution has played a key role in supporting our business throughout this time. We would be more than happy to endorse or recommend Access2HR to any business in need of expert HR support.Posted on Google![]()
Maureen DTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
The Access2HR team is very friendly and approachable, while providing high-quality and reliable service. I am very happy with their support and would certainly recommend them to others!Posted on Google![]()
John PalmerTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Tracey at Access 2 HR is absolutely fantastic and been incredibly helpful to our small business HR needs.
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Access2 Human Resources
We’ve been providing HR services and support to businesses locally in Salisbury and across the UK for 15 years. As HR experts, our job is to make your life easier – giving you peace of mind that you’re meeting your legal obligations as an employer and doing the right thing by your employees.
Tracey Osmond – HR Services Director
Tracey has over 15 years’ HR experience and joined Access2 Human Resources in 2017, progressing to HR Services Director in December 2024. She is CIPD Level 5 qualified with cross-sector experience and leads a team of HR Advisors, providing practical, up-to-date advice on all aspects of employment law, including complex employee relations matters.
Lynne Rose – Recruitment Services Director
Lynne brings over 25 years’ experience in recruitment, working across a wide range of sectors and supporting businesses to attract, retain and develop the right people. CIPD Level 5 qualified, she works alongside the Access2 Human Resources team on recruitment strategy, policy development and workforce planning, helping clients build effective and sustainable teams.