The Worker Protection Act 2024: What Employers and Self-Employed Workers Need to Know

In this important episode of the Buxton Coates Solicitors Podcast, Sarah Buxton is joined by Dispute and Litigation Solicitor Ru Hamid to unpack the Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Act 2024, which came into force on 26 October 2024. With a unique perspective on both law and dentistry—thanks to his legal background and family connections to the profession—Ru brings a valuable blend of insight and practical advice to the table.

This new legislation places a positive legal duty on employers to take all reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace—including harassment from third parties like patients, delivery personnel, contractors, and visitors. With Health and Safety England now involved in enforcement, it's more important than ever for dental and healthcare employers to act.

Ru shares the advice he's giving clients right now to ensure they're compliant and protecting their staff—including steps to update policies, refresh training, and improve reporting procedures. He also highlights the role of self-employed workers and practice managers in understanding and implementing these changes, especially in a sector where working relationships and contracts vary widely.

Key Discussion Points:

1. What is the Worker Protection Act 2024?

   • A summary of the changes and what it means for employers.

   • The new legal requirement to prevent third-party harassment in the workplace.

2. Who Counts as a Third Party?

   • From patients to couriers, the wide scope of people this law applies to.

   • Why the law matters especially in healthcare and dental settings where footfall is high.

3. The Role of Health and Safety England:

   • New enforcement responsibilities and how this will affect employers in practice.

   • The risk of non-compliance and why proactive action is essential.

4. Ru’s Practical Advice for Employers:

   • Update or introduce sexual harassment policies that include third-party risks.

   • Refresh equality and diversity training for all team members.

   • Put clear, trusted reporting procedures in place for employees to raise concerns.

5. Spotlight on Self-Employed Workers:

   • Why understanding these changes isn’t just for employees—self-employed clinicians must know their rights and responsibilities too.

   • The importance of ensuring contracts reflect workplace expectations and are supported by appropriate policies.

   • How practice managers and business owners should support and communicate this across the team.

6. Current Hot Topics in Litigation:

   • Ru shares common themes and concerns he's hearing from clients right now.

   • Key takeaways for employers looking to stay ahead of emerging legal trends.

This legislation marks a significant shift in the responsibilities of employers. Whether you run a dental practice, manage a healthcare team, or work as a self-employed clinician, this episode offers essential insights into what’s changed, what to do now, and how to protect your team and your business.

Don’t be caught off guard—listen now to ensure you’re up to date and prepared. Ru’s practical guidance is easy to follow and designed for real-world application in busy healthcare settings.

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