As I get older, it seems that every year seems to fly past quicker than the last. 2024 has been no exception and I can hardly believe this will be my last blog of the year.
Looking back over the past 12 months, it certainly seems like a lot has happened. Perhaps the biggest change was the new Labour government, which has already looked to make its mark with initiatives such as its Employment Rights Bill. Hailed as one of the biggest shake ups to employment law in years, the bill introduced proposals such as a day-one right to request flexible working, mandatory ethnicity and disability pay reporting, the right for employees to switch off from work, and stronger protections for pregnant employees and new mothers returning to work.
The bill also proposed a requirement for large employers to create action plans on addressing gender pay gaps and supporting staff through the menopause, as well as introduce the right to a guaranteed hours contract, and establish a Fair Work Agency to enforce holiday pay, among many other initiatives.
Throughout 2024, we also saw a continuing focus on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) within HR and reward. Despite understandable concerns that AI would replace humans in roles, its ability to undertake routine tasks and data analysis can free up individuals to focus on more strategic initiatives. According to research published by Aon in February this year, HR professionals expect AI to have the biggest impact on people analytics, talent acquisition, learning and development, and performance management. It will be interesting to watch how the use of AI continues to develop over the coming year.
Elsewhere, we have seen employers continue to look for ways to support staff with the high cost of living. And, of course, the debate over mandating a return to the office has rumbled on.
In the world of Employee Benefits, we also enjoyed a fantastic Employee Benefits Live, celebrated employers’ outstanding achievements at the Employee Benefits Awards and redesigned employeebenefits.co.uk in order to give it a fresh new look, provide a better user experience and make it easier for you to find what you are looking for.
Planning is now well underway here for 2025. The Employee Benefits Awards 2025 are open for entries and we’re looking forward to recognising more outstanding contributions of individuals, teams and organisations.
All that remains is for me to wish you all a happy and healthy festive season from all of us at Employee Benefits. See you in 2025!
Debbie Lovewell-Tuck
Editor
@DebbieLovewell
