This significant increase is intended to prevent employers from “pricing in” the cost of ignoring collective consultation obligations. October 2026Harassment and sexual harassmentCurrently, employers must take “reasonable steps” to prevent sexual harassment in the course of employment. There will also be protection from third-party harassment, covering any harassment rather than only sexual harassment as at present. Employment Tribunal time limitsFrom 1 October, the time limit for bringing an Employment Tribunal claim will increase to six months for all claims, doubling the current limit of three months. Review and update harassment and sexual harassment policies, and review any sexual harassment risk assessment to account for the extended duty.