A major shake-up of workers' rights is on its way, but the reforms proposed are still being worked out and it is still unclear how some will work in practice.

The government says the measures in the Employment Rights Bill mark the "biggest upgrade to rights at work for a generation".

However, some business groups have expressed concern at the plans, while others have argued that the government has watered down or delayed certain elements to try to keep both employers and employees happy.

Changes could still be made to proposals before most of them take effect in two years' time, but here is what is being proposed and how it could affect you.

Unfair dismissal

The bill - which applies to England, Scotland and Wales, but not Northern Ireland where employment law is devolved - means workers will have the right to claim unfair dismissal against their employer from day one.

That is a big change from the existing two-year qualifying period.

However, staff will be subject to a nine-month probation period, during which employers can dismiss someone more easily and without the full process required.

But the proposals could yet change with the government planning a series of consultations. The new rights are set to come into force in autumn 2026.

Zero-hours contracts

Zero-hours contracts are also known as casual contracts. Workers are not guaranteed hours from employers, but they also do not have to work when asked.

Under the new legislation, company bosses will be required to...

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