Dudley MP tells Black Country workers their jobs are more secure under new employment law

Dudley MP Sonia Kumar has told Black Country workers they are more secure in their jobs under the Government's new Employment Rights Act.

The new workplace regulations came into force this week and cover sick pay, paternity and bereavement leave and stronger recognition for trade unions.

Employees who speak up about scandals and sexual harassment will also be protected under the new law.

Labour MP Sonia Kumar said: “These changes mark a real shift in favour of working people here in Dudley and across the country. For too long, many workers have faced insecurity, unfairness and difficult choices like going into work sick because they couldn’t afford not to.

“That’s why I’m particularly proud to see Statutory Sick Pay available from day one — a simple but important change that protects both workers and public health."

She added: “Giving parents the right to leave from their first day on the job is also a huge step forward, ensuring families can spend time together when it matters most.

“And strengthening trade union rights means more workers can stand together to secure better pay and conditions.”

The MP highlighted the importance of new protections for whistleblowers after several scandals, including in the NHS and the BBC, where workers brave enough to reveal abuse and bullying were forced out of their jobs.

She added: “No one should fear speaking up about wrongdoing in the workplace, especially on serious issues like harassment. These new protections are vital."

Workers dealing with the death of a loved one will also be given longer to grieve under the new regulations.

Mrs Kumar said: “And at the most difficult moments in life, like losing a partner or child, people deserve time and support to grieve. This new right to bereavement leave recognises that.”

The Government's Make Work Pay policy aims to ensure people feel secure in their jobs and make working more attractive than claiming benefits which if successful will boost the economy.

The MP added: “This is just the beginning. There is more to do to ensure these rights are fully implemented and felt by working people in Dudley — and I will continue to work to make sure they are.”