About the campaign
Our members need a new deal for workers. The cost-of-living crisis has hit working people hard. Across the country, millions have seen their living standards squeezed and their families suffer as wages have failed to keep up with soaring bills and sky-rocketing costs.
At the heart of the cost-of-living crisis is a crisis of employment rights.
Usdaw's 'New Deal for Workers' Campaign emerged in 2020, in response to the incredible work of our members during the pandemic.
The pandemic demonstrated the critical role that many low-paid workers play in our economy and society and exposed the deep unfairness and inequalities at the heart of the labour market.
With more than three in four workers unable to afford to take time off work when ill and 15% having to turn to food banks, we know that workers need a new deal which includes an increase in wages to the real living wage and a guaranteed number of working hours.
The Employment Rights Bill
The Employment Rights Bill continues to make its way through Parliament, and a range of details still need to be set out. We expect the provisions of the Bill to be enacted during 2026. This briefing sets out some of the key wins already within the Bill.
This new law will mean
- Statutory sick pay from DAY ONE of absence for all workers
- Exploitative zero hours contracts BANNED
- Employment protections from day one in your new job
Unfortunately, not all MPs are on the side of working people: Conservative and Reform MPs voted against your new rights at work.
The Employment Rights Bill is happening because of the hard work and campaigning of Usdaw reps and members. We need Usdaw members to let politicians know how important this is to you.
It is vital we get this right. That's why we’re asking you to write to your MP to ask for their support to make your life at work better.
You will be prompted to enter your postcode to direct the petition to your own MP.
Social media
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What we've achieved so far
Since April 2024, the National Living Wage has been increased for anyone aged 21 and up. This is a step in the right direction; however, we believe the NLW should be available for ages 18 and above. We also believe wages should come in line with the ‘Real Living Wage’, which is set out by the Real Living Wage Foundation.
As of April 2025, the NLW has been increased above £12 for the first time. Usdaw have been campaigning for this as a step towards £15.
Statutory sick pay has also increased by 6.7%, meaning workers will be able to earn £116.75 per week whilst off sick. There still needs to be changes with payment not received for the first three days off illness and employees needing to earn at least £123 per week to claim it.
Key campaign actions
Because of a lack of decent employment rights from the previous government, low-paid workers are particularly vulnerable to having their hours, wages or terms and conditions cut and susceptible to short-term economic downturns and headwinds.
Usdaw is clear that workers must be given greater rights and protection and the pay they deserve, through a new deal for workers.
Usdaw is calling for a £15 minimum wage for all workers, and an end to the rip-off youth rates.
A minimum contract of 16 hours for everyone who wants it and an end to zero hours contracts are also on our agenda.
Better sick pay which allows workers to feel that they can call in sick when they need, rather than forcing themselves into work, is also in our plan, as well as several other policies.
