The Fair Work Agency (FWA) began operating in 2026 as the UK’s new employment rights enforcement body, bringing together several existing enforcement functions into a single organisation. Established under the Employment Rights Act 2025, the agency aims to simplify the enforcement of employment rights while making it easier for both employers and workers to access guidance and support.
The FWA is responsible for enforcing key workplace rights, including Statutory Sick Pay (SSP), National Minimum Wage, holiday pay and other statutory employment protections. It also has enhanced powers to investigate suspected breaches, recover unpaid sums on behalf of workers and take enforcement action where employers fail to comply with employment law.
Although the agency is intended to streamline enforcement, employers should ensure their policies, payroll processes and record-keeping are up to date, as increased enforcement activity is expected over the coming years.
Need more information? Our Fair Work Agency Factsheet explains what the new agency means for employers, outlines its enforcement powers and highlights the practical steps organisations should take to remain compliant.
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