July’s top 10 HR questions include some exploring the impact of the reduction in the unfair dismissal qualifying period. Under measures in the Employment Rights Act 2025, coming into force in January 2027, the qualifying period for claiming unfair dismissal will reduce from two years to six months. The top two questions for the month look at the timing of dismissals at the end of a probationary period and whether qualification for unfair dismissal is affected by long periods of absence. Other FAQs look at the impact of the reduction in the unfair dismissal qualifying period on the use of fixed-term contracts. If an employee is absent for significant periods during their probationary period, will they still gain unfair dismissal rights after six months?