Benefits and Welfare Legislation

Legislative framework for social security, welfare benefits, universal credit, pension schemes, and support systems for vulnerable populations.

The Victim Support (Specified Roles) Regulations 2025

Published: Mon 7th Apr 25

The Victim Support (Specified Roles) Regulations 2025, enacted under the Victims and Prisoners Act 2024, specify the roles of independent domestic violence advisors, independent sexual violence advisors, and independent stalking advocates.

These regulations mandate the Secretary of State to provide guidance on these roles, aiming to enhance support services for victims of crime. The regulations have a staggered implementation, with most provisions coming into force on May 9th, 2025, and one specific regulation effective February 2nd, 2026.

The legislation clarifies the responsibilities of these support roles, drawing existing legal definitions from the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 and the Protection from Harassment Act 1997.

The Horizon Shortfall Scheme Appeals (Tax Exemptions and Relief) Regulations 2025

Published: Thu 3rd Apr 25

The Horizon Shortfall Scheme Appeals (Tax Exemptions and Relief) Regulations 2025, effective April 28, 2025, grant tax exemptions and relief to recipients of compensation payments from the Department for Business and Trade’s independent appeals process.

The regulations exempt these payments from income tax, capital gains tax, inheritance tax, and corporation tax.

Additionally, it exempts from income and capital gains tax relevant onward payments made by companies relating to these appeal payments.

All exemptions are rooted in the Finance Act 2020.

The Social Security (Contributions) (Amendment No. 5) Regulations 2025

Published: Thu 3rd Apr 25

The Social Security (Contributions) (Amendment No. 5) Regulations 2025, effective April 28, 2025, amend the 2001 Social Security (Contributions) Regulations.

These amendments exclude payments made under the Horizon Shortfall Scheme Appeals from earnings calculations used to determine Class 1 National Insurance contributions.

The regulations were created under the authority of the Social Security Contributions and Benefits Act 1992 and the Social Security Contributions and Benefits (Northern Ireland) Act 1992, with concurrence from the Department for Communities.

The Victims and Prisoners Act 2024 (Commencement No. 5) Regulations 2025

Published: Thu 3rd Apr 25

The Victims and Prisoners Act 2024 (Commencement No. 5) Regulations 2025 bring into force several provisions of the 2024 Act.

These include amendments to the power to alter release on license criteria for specific prisoners, changes to offences relevant to public protection decisions, and the introduction of mandatory guidance for defined victim support roles.

The regulations stipulate different commencement dates for these provisions, ranging from the day after their making to May and June 2025.

The regulations apply to England and Wales, and the Explanatory Note confirms no significant impact on the private or voluntary sectors is foreseen.

The Civil Legal Aid (Remuneration) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Tue 1st Apr 25

The Civil Legal Aid (Remuneration) (Amendment) Regulations 2025, effective May 1, 2025, amend the 2013 Civil Legal Aid (Remuneration) Regulations.

The amendments increase standard fees for legal representation in welfare benefit cases and streamline the fee schedule by removing certain tables.

A saving provision ensures that these changes do not apply retroactively to applications made before May 1, 2025.

The National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Mon 31st Mar 25

The National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Regulations 2025, effective April 1, 2025, increase the UK's national living wage and minimum wage rates.

The national living wage rises from £11.44 to £12.21 per hour; the rate for 18-20 year olds increases from £8.60 to £10.00; the rate for under-18s rises from £6.40 to £7.55; and the accommodation offset increases from £9.99 to £10.66 per day.

These changes apply across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, amending the 2015 National Minimum Wage Regulations.

The Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment, Jobseeker's Allowance and Employment and Support Allowance (Claims and Payments) (Modification) Regulations 2025

Published: Thu 27th Mar 25

These regulations amend the 2013 regulations governing Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment, Jobseeker’s Allowance, and Employment and Support Allowance claims and payments.

The key change prioritizes deductions for child maintenance over other deductions.

The regulations apply to England, Wales, and Scotland and are in effect from April 30, 2025, to April 30, 2026.

The Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 (Consequential Amendments) Regulations 2025

Published: Wed 26th Mar 25

The Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 (Consequential Amendments) Regulations 2025 amend several UK laws to reflect changes in consumer protection, enforcement mechanisms, and information disclosure related to the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024.

The regulations predominantly replace references to older legislation with references to the newer Act, ensuring consistent application of the new Act's directives across various legal instruments.

Specific changes include updates to acts governing agriculture, misrepresentation, telecommunications, and financial services, among others.

The amendments also clarify information disclosure rules to support smoother international cooperation between regulators.

Several amendments will come into force only once specific parts of the 2024 Act are enacted.

The Flood Reinsurance (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Mon 24th Mar 25

These regulations amend the 2015 Flood Reinsurance regulations, raising the total levy from £135 million to £160 million.

This increase aims to improve the affordability and availability of flood insurance in high-risk areas.

The amendment applies to England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland and took effect on April 1st, 2025, without affecting existing liabilities.

The Online Safety (CSEA Content Reporting by Regulated User-to-User Service Providers) Regulations 2025

Published: Thu 20th Mar 25

These regulations mandate that UK online service providers of regulated user-to-user services report child sexual abuse and exploitation (CSEA) content to the National Crime Agency (NCA).

Providers must register with the NCA, designating an organisation administrator and potentially an authorised person for reporting.

The regulations specify the information to be included in reports, their formatting, submission methods (API or manual), and urgency levels based upon risk assessment.

Data retention requirements for both CSEA content and associated user data are also outlined.

The Online Safety Act 2023 (Commencement No. 5) Regulations 2025

Published: Thu 20th Mar 25

These regulations, effective November 3rd, 2025, implement parts of the Online Safety Act 2023 in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.

They mandate that providers of regulated user-to-user services report Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (CSEA) content to the National Crime Agency (NCA), establishing related offenses and outlining reporting processes.

The regulations also specify the commencement date for several other Act provisions related to CSEA reporting, information offences, and transparency reports, all within the context of regulated user-to-user services.

The Social Security Benefits Up-rating Regulations 2025

Published: Mon 17th Mar 25

The Social Security Benefits Up-rating Regulations 2025, effective April 7th, 2025, adjust various social security benefits and pensions in England, Wales, and Scotland to reflect updated rates.

The regulations specify exceptions for determining benefit rates, address payment to persons not ordinarily resident in Great Britain, amend existing regulations concerning carer's allowance and payments to third parties, and revoke the 2024 up-rating regulations.

These changes aim to reflect the 2025 benefits and pensions up-rating exercise, ensuring benefits remain relevant in light of economic adjustments.

The Mesothelioma Lump Sum Payments (Conditions and Amounts) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Mon 17th Mar 25

The Mesothelioma Lump Sum Payments (Conditions and Amounts) (Amendment) Regulations 2025, effective April 1st, 2025, amend the 2008 regulations to increase lump sum payments for individuals with diffuse mesothelioma and their dependents by 1.7%.

The adjustments only apply to claims made on or after this date, and individuals first diagnosed on or after this date.

The increase is applied across various age brackets as outlined in the updated tables within the amendment.

The regulations extend to England, Wales, and Scotland.

A full impact assessment was deemed unnecessary due to the insignificant effect on the public, private, or voluntary sectors.

The Pneumoconiosis etc. (Workers’ Compensation) (Payment of Claims) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Mon 17th Mar 25

The 2025 Pneumoconiosis etc. (Workers’ Compensation) (Payment of Claims) (Amendment) Regulations increase lump sum payments under the 1988 Regulations.

These amendments, effective April 1st, 2025, raise the amounts payable to individuals disabled by pneumoconiosis, mesothelioma, or related diseases, or their dependents.

The increases are approximately 1.7%, rounded to the nearest pound, applying only to cases where entitlement is established on or after the effective date.

The regulations were approved by both Houses of Parliament.

The Social Security Contributions (Decisions and Appeals) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Fri 14th Mar 25

These regulations, effective April 6, 2025, amend the Social Security Contributions (Decisions and Appeals) Regulations 1999 to incorporate statutory neonatal care pay into decisions and appeals processes.

The amendments are made under the Social Security Contributions (Transfer of Functions, etc.) Act 1999 and are a direct consequence of changes introduced by the Neonatal Care (Leave and Pay) Act 2023.

The Lord Chancellor and Scottish Ministers concur with the regulations.

The Employment Rights (Increase of Limits) Order 2025

Published: Fri 14th Mar 25

This Order, effective April 6, 2025, increases limits for various awards and payments under UK employment legislation.

The increases, detailed in a schedule, reflect a 2.7% rise in the Retail Prices Index between September 2023 and September 2024.

The Order revokes the 2024 version and sets transitional provisions to manage cases predating the new limits.

Increases apply to compensation for unfair dismissal, unlawful inducement, union expulsion and others as well as guarantee payments.

The Pensions Increase (Review) Order 2025

Published: Fri 14th Mar 25

The Pensions Increase (Review) Order 2025, effective April 7, 2025, increases the annual rate of public service pensions.

For pensions starting before April 8, 2024, the increase is 1.7%.

For pensions starting on or after that date, the increase is 1.7% multiplied by a fraction representing the months between the pension's start date and April 7, 2025.

Similar increases apply to lump sums.

The order outlines adjustments for guaranteed minimum pensions, reducing the increase based on their rate of payment.

The Armed Forces and Reserve Forces (Compensation Scheme) (Amendment) Order 2025

Published: Thu 13th Mar 25

This Order amends the 2011 Armed Forces and Reserve Forces Compensation Scheme.

It increases the weekly armed forces independence payment to £187.45 and the Motability payment to £77.05.

Additionally, it adds a new descriptor to Schedule 3, covering overuse injuries of the larynx requiring operative treatment, making a temporary award permanent.

The Guardian’s Allowance Up-rating Regulations 2025

Published: Thu 13th Mar 25

The Guardian's Allowance Up-rating Regulations 2025, effective April 7, 2025, detail adjustments to Guardian's Allowance rates based on the Child Benefit and Guardian's Allowance Up-rating Order 2025.

The regulations clarify how these changes apply, addressing situations concerning questions about payment rates and those not ordinarily resident in Great Britain or Northern Ireland.

They specify that existing legislation concerning the determination of benefit rates and the treatment of those residing abroad applies to these adjustments.

The Personal Injuries (Civilians) Scheme (Amendment) Order 2025

Published: Thu 13th Mar 25

The Personal Injuries (Civilians) Scheme (Amendment) Order 2025, effective April 7th, 2025, updates the rates of pensions and allowances payable under the 1983 Scheme to civilians injured or killed during World War II. The amendment replaces the tables in Schedules 3 and 4 outlining these rates, adjusting them to current values.

The order applies to England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.

The Statutory Maternity Pay (Compensation of Employers) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Thu 13th Mar 25

These regulations, effective April 6th, 2025, amend the 1994 Statutory Maternity Pay regulations concerning compensation for small employers.

They increase the additional payment small employers receive from 3% to 8.5% of statutory maternity pay.

This change applies across the UK, with specific provisions for Northern Ireland.

The amendment is based on a pre-determined formula and is projected to have minimal impact on the private, voluntary, or community sectors.

The Inspectors of Education, Children’s Services and Skills Order 2025

Published: Thu 13th Mar 25

The Inspectors of Education, Children’s Services and Skills Order 2025, effective March 13, 2025, appoints several individuals as His Majesty’s Inspectors of Education, Children’s Services and Skills.

The appointments are made under the authority of the Education and Inspections Act 2006 and aim to maintain standards within these crucial sectors.

The Statutory Neonatal Care Pay (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2025

Published: Wed 12th Mar 25

These regulations amend existing UK legislation to incorporate statutory neonatal care pay, as introduced by the Neonatal Care (Leave and Pay) Act 2023.

The amendments update the Statutory Payment Schemes (Electronic Communications) Regulations 2002 and Income Tax legislation (Pay As You Earn Regulations 2003 and Construction Industry Scheme Regulations 2005) to include references and administrative processes related to this new parental benefit.

The changes streamline administration and ensure consistent legal treatment of statutory neonatal care pay.

The Help-to-Save Accounts Regulations 2025

Published: Wed 12th Mar 25

The Help-To-Save Accounts Regulations 2025 amend the 2018 regulations governing Help-to-Save accounts.

Key changes include lowering the minimum earned income requirement for Universal Credit claimants to £1 and removing the reference to the national living wage in eligibility criteria.

The amendments aim to simplify eligibility and broaden access to the savings scheme for low-income individuals.

The Social Security (Contributions) (Amendment No. 3) Regulations 2025

Published: Wed 12th Mar 25

These regulations, effective April 6, 2025, amend the Social Security (Contributions) Regulations 2001.

They exclude the qualifying amount of tax redress payments from earnings calculations for Class 1 National Insurance contributions.

This applies to tax redress payments made to members of MPs', Senedd, and Northern Ireland Assembly pension schemes as compensation for tax liabilities arising from a pension calculation method change.

The Social Security (Contributions) (Amendment No. 2) Regulations 2025

Published: Wed 12th Mar 25

The Social Security (Contributions) (Amendment No. 2) Regulations 2025, effective April 6th, 2025, amend the 2001 Social Security (Contributions) Regulations.

Specifically, they modify the reporting requirements for Real Time Information (RTI) employers.

The amendment clarifies that employers must report earnings information to HMRC unless employee earnings fall below either the lower earnings limit or the secondary threshold, whichever is lower.

This ensures consistent reporting even when the secondary threshold is below the lower earnings limit.

A Tax Information and Impact Note was deemed unnecessary due to the absence of substantive tax policy changes.

The Income Tax (Pay As You Earn) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Wed 12th Mar 25

The Income Tax (Pay As You Earn) (Amendment) Regulations 2025, effective April 6, 2025, amend the 2003 PAYE Regulations.

Key changes include defining a 'secondary threshold' aligned with the 1992 Social Security Contributions and Benefits Act and modifying regulations 47(2), 48(2), 49C(2), and 49D(2) to use either the lower earnings limit or the secondary threshold (whichever is lower) for initial payments.

The amendments aim to enhance clarity and consistency in income tax deduction calculations.

The National Health Service Pension Schemes (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Tue 11th Mar 25

The National Health Service Pension Schemes (Amendment) Regulations 2025 amend multiple NHS pension scheme regulations, primarily correcting errors and inconsistencies, updating tax provisions following the abolition of the lifetime allowance, improving leave provision, and enhancing calculation accuracy.

These changes affect various NHS pension schemes introduced in 1995, 2000, 2008, and 2015, with several provisions applied retrospectively.

The Social Security (Contributions) (Re-rating) Consequential Amendment Regulations 2025

Published: Tue 11th Mar 25

The Social Security (Contributions) (Re-rating) Consequential Amendment Regulations 2025, effective April 6th, 2025, amend the Social Security (Contributions) Regulations 2001.

Specifically, the amendment increases the Class 2 National Insurance contribution rate for share fishermen from £4.10 to £4.15.

These changes are consequential to annual adjustments to national insurance rates and are based on pre-determined indexation formulas.

A Tax Information and Impact Note was not prepared due to the routine and predetermined nature of the adjustments.

The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 (Commencement No. 8 and Saving Provisions) Regulations 2025

Published: Tue 11th Mar 25

These regulations implement a pilot program for Part 3 of the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 in specified areas of England and Wales.

This part establishes domestic abuse protection notices and orders.

The pilot runs from March 11th to November 26th, 2025, in Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar and Cleveland, and Stockton-on-Tees.

Provisions are made to ensure ongoing legal effect for cases initiated before the pilot's end, and the program is assessed with an impact assessment not considered necessary at this staged rollout.

The Recovery of Costs (Remand to Youth Detention Accommodation) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Mon 10th Mar 25

These regulations, effective April 1st, 2025, amend the 2013 Recovery of Costs (Remand to Youth Detention Accommodation) Regulations to increase the daily cost reimbursement the Secretary of State receives for detaining children on remand in various youth detention facilities in England and Wales.

The amounts are raised for young offender institutions, secure training centres, and secure children's homes (including a specific amount for secure 16-19 Academies).

The National Health Service (Dental Charges) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Mon 10th Mar 25

The National Health Service (Dental Charges) (Amendment) Regulations 2025, effective April 1st, 2025, increase several NHS dental treatment charges in England.

These increases, specified in Regulation 2, amend the 2005 Regulations to adjust charges for Bands 1, 2, and 3 treatments.

The explanatory note justifies the changes as routine inflation adjustments, asserting that a full impact assessment is unnecessary due to the lack of policy changes and continued eligibility for exemptions.

The Food Crime Officers (Complaints and Misconduct) Regulations 2025

Published: Mon 10th Mar 25

The Food Crime Officers (Complaints and Misconduct) Regulations 2025, effective May 1, 2025, establish a framework for handling complaints and misconduct involving Food Standards Agency food crime officers in England and Wales.

The regulations adapt the Police Reform Act 2002, outlining procedures for investigations, reporting to the Secretary of State, and payment arrangements.

They detail the roles of the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), the Food Standards Agency chief executive, and the Secretary of State, including responsibilities for investigations, referrals, and reporting.

The regulations also address issues like evidence preservation, timeliness of investigations, the role of an 'FSA friend,' and restrictions on disclosure of sensitive information, while incorporating mechanisms for review and appeal.

The Teachers’ Pensions Schemes (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Mon 10th Mar 25

These regulations amend the Teachers’ Pensions Regulations 2010, the Teachers’ Pension Scheme Regulations 2014, and the Teachers’ Pension Scheme (Remediable Service) Regulations 2023.

Key changes include updating references to outdated legislation, adjusting members' contribution rates, altering employer payment dates, expanding the definition of "contracting scheme employer," and clarifying the definition of "alternative amount." These changes aim to improve accuracy, clarity, and efficiency within the Teachers’ Pension Schemes while ensuring compliance with current legislation.

The regulations took effect on April 1st, 2025.

The Child Benefit and Guardian's Allowance Up-rating Order 2025

Published: Fri 7th Mar 25

This order increases Child Benefit and Guardian's Allowance rates for the 2025-26 tax year in Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Following a review showing increased prices, the Treasury amended relevant regulations to raise the weekly Child Benefit rates to £26.05 (enhanced rate) and £17.25 (other cases), and the Guardian's Allowance rate to £22.10.

The changes are legally based on existing Social Security Administration Acts and took effect April 7, 2025.

The Registration and Inspection of Education, Children's Services and Skills (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Fri 7th Mar 25

These regulations, effective April 1st, 2025, amend the Her Majesty's Chief Inspector of Education, Children's Services and Skills (Fees and Frequency of Inspections) (Children's Homes etc.) Regulations 2015.

Key changes include lowering thresholds for higher annual fees for residential special schools and children's homes and revising various registration and variation fees across different settings.

The changes are supported by existing legislation and aim to balance resource allocation with fair charges.

The Social Security (Contributions) (Rates, Limits and Thresholds Amendments, National Insurance Funds Payments and Extension of Veteran's Relief) Regulations 2025

Published: Fri 7th Mar 25

These regulations, effective April 6, 2025, adjust National Insurance contribution rates and thresholds for Class 2 and Class 3 contributions.

They also adjust the prescribed percentage of estimated benefit expenditure for payments into the National Insurance Fund for Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and extend zero-rate contributions for armed forces veterans to the 2025-26 tax year.

The changes are based on a Treasury review of earnings and estimated benefit expenditure.

The Judicial Pensions (European Court of Human Rights) (Amendment) Order 2025

Published: Thu 6th Mar 25

This Order amends the Judicial Pensions (European Court of Human Rights) Order 1998 to update pension provisions for judges of the European Court of Human Rights.

The amendments clarify the interaction between UK pension schemes and the Council of Europe scheme, ensuring that ECHR judges retain pension benefits under the UK's Judicial Pensions Regulations 2022, even if they opt into the Council of Europe's scheme.

It also defines 'Pensionable Earnings' for ECHR judges and ensures their UK judicial office is treated as a qualifying office under the 2022 Regulations.

The Taxes (Interest Rate) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Thu 6th Mar 25

The Taxes (Interest Rate) (Amendment) Regulations 2025, effective April 6, 2025, raise the official interest rate used to calculate tax on employment-related loans from 2.25% to 3.75% per annum.

This amendment modifies the Taxes (Interest Rate) Regulations 1989, impacting the tax liability for individuals receiving employment-related loans with interest rates below the new official rate.

The change aims to update the tax calculation to reflect current economic conditions and ensure fairer taxation on these types of loans.

The Government Resources and Accounts Act 2000 (Estimates and Accounts) Order 2025

Published: Thu 6th Mar 25

The Government Resources and Accounts Act 2000 (Estimates and Accounts) Order 2025 designates numerous central government bodies as 'designated bodies' for the financial year ending 31 March 2026.

This designation is for their inclusion in the supply estimates and resource accounts of their respective government departments.

The order covers various government departments and agencies across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.

It is based on powers granted by the Government Resources and Accounts Act 2000 and includes consultations with devolved administrations.

The Social Security Revaluation of Earnings Factors Order 2025

Published: Wed 5th Mar 25

The Social Security Revaluation of Earnings Factors Order 2025, effective April 6, 2025, increases earnings factors for specified tax years (1978-1979 to 2024-2025).

These adjustments apply to calculations of additional pensions in long-term benefits, guaranteed minimum pensions, and other calculations under the Pension Schemes Act 1993.

The order ensures that these factors maintain their value relative to the general level of earnings, fulfilling a legal requirement outlined in the Social Security Administration Act 1992, and aims to protect the value of pension payouts.

The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 (Commencement No. 7 and Saving Provisions) Regulations 2025

Published: Wed 5th Mar 25

These regulations, effective March 5th, 2025, extend a pilot program for the Domestic Abuse Act 2021's Part 3 (domestic abuse protection orders and notices) to the non-metropolitan county of Cleveland in England and Wales.

The pilot runs until November 26th, 2025, with provisions ensuring ongoing legal effect for cases initiated before the end of specified period.

The regulations explicitly define terms like ‘domestic abuse protection notice’ (DAPN) and ‘domestic abuse protection order’ (DAPO), clarifying their application within the program's framework.

The Public Service Pensions Revaluation Order 2025

Published: Tue 4th Mar 25

The Public Service Pensions Revaluation Order 2025 sets the revaluation percentages for public service pensions for the period from April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025.

It specifies a 1.7% increase based on price changes and a 4.5% increase based on earnings changes.

The order takes effect on April 1, 2025, but for certain specified schemes, it comes into effect on April 6, 2025.

The order covers England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland and is made under the powers granted by the Public Service Pensions Act 2013.

The Council Tax (Discount Disregards and Exempt Dwellings) (Amendment) (England) Regulations 2025

Published: Tue 4th Mar 25

These regulations, effective March 25th, 2025, modify existing council tax legislation in England.

They expand the categories of individuals eligible for council tax discounts and exempt dwellings to include those participating in the Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme and those entitled to a government thank you payment under associated guidance.

The changes apply to both discount disregards and exempt dwelling definitions, ensuring consistent treatment of Ukrainian arrivals within the council tax system.

The Health and Care Professions Council (Miscellaneous Amendments) Rules Order of Council 2025

Published: Tue 4th Mar 25

This Order approves amendments to the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) rules.

The amendments increase various registration and scrutiny fees, reflecting updated operational costs, and allow the HCPC to conduct meetings and hearings using audio or video conferencing technology improving efficiency and access.

The fee increases affect registration, renewal, readmission, and restoration fees, as well as scrutiny fees for UK and international applicants.

The changes to procedures affect multiple sets of HCPC procedural rules, specifically those concerning the Investigating, Conduct and Competence, Health, and Registration Appeals Committees.

The HCPC consulted with relevant bodies and stakeholders before implementing these changes.

The National Health Service Commissioning Board and Clinical Commissioning Groups (Responsibilities and Standing Rules) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Mon 3rd Mar 25

These regulations amend the 2012 National Health Service Commissioning Board and Clinical Commissioning Groups (Responsibilities and Standing Rules) Regulations.

Key changes include updating the rates for NHS-funded nursing care, increasing the ‘flat rate payment’ from £235.88 to £254.06 and the ‘high band payment’ from £324.50 to £349.50.

The regulations also remove references to secure training centers from NHS England's commissioning responsibilities, focusing instead solely on immigration removal centers.

These amendments took effect on April 1st, 2025, and apply to England only, having been made under the authority of the National Health Service Act 2006.

The Social Security (Scotland) Act 2018 (Scottish Adult Disability Living Allowance) (Consequential Amendments) (No. 2) Order 2025

Published: Fri 28th Feb 25

This order amends various UK election laws to include the Scottish Adult Disability Living Allowance (SADLA) as grounds for proxy voting.

This ensures equal access to proxy voting for individuals in England, Wales, and Scotland who receive SADLA for disabilities, aligning with existing provisions for similar benefits.

The amendments affect regulations governing proxy voting in several election contexts, including general elections, police and crime commissioner elections, and recall petitions.

The Enterprise Act 2002 (Bodies Designated to make Super-complaints) (Amendment) Order 2025

Published: Thu 27th Feb 25

This Order amends the Enterprise Act 2002 (Bodies Designated to make Super-complaints) Order 2004 by adding the Money and Mental Health Policy Institute to the list of designated consumer bodies.

The Secretary of State confirmed the Institute represents consumer interests and meets all specified criteria, enabling it to file super-complaints with the Competition and Markets Authority regarding market practices harming consumers.

The amendment enhances consumer protection, specifically within the mental health sector, effective from April 6, 2025, and applies across the whole of the UK.

The Social Security (Scotland) Act 2018 (Scottish Adult Disability Living Allowance) (Consequential Modifications) Order 2025

Published: Thu 27th Feb 25

This order modifies UK legislation following the introduction of the Scottish Adult Disability Living Allowance (SADLA) in Scotland.

It amends several acts related to social security and taxation, preventing double payments where SADLA and other benefits overlap, and adjusting treatment of SADLA in defining disability for various purposes across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.

The order ensures consistent treatment of SADLA recipients across the UK.

The Gambling Act 2005 (Operating Licence Conditions) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Thu 27th Feb 25

These regulations amend the Gambling Act 2005 (Operating Licence Conditions) Regulations 2007 to introduce maximum stake limits for online slots games.

The maximum stake is £2 for individuals under 25 and £5 for those 25 and over.

A six-week transitional period applies, and the Secretary of State must review the regulations within five years, publishing a report on the findings.

The Gambling Levy Regulations 2025

Published: Thu 27th Feb 25

The Gambling Levy Regulations 2025 mandate that gambling operators pay an annual levy to the Gambling Commission, beginning April 6, 2025.

The levy amount is calculated based on the operator's revenue, with different percentages applied to different licenses.

The regulation aims to fund research and treatment of gambling-related harm, and addresses the collection of this levy through defined levy periods and methods of calculation.

Non-payment, unless excused by administrative error, results in license revocation.

The Income Tax (Exemption of Scottish Adult Disability Living Allowance) Regulations 2025

Published: Wed 26th Feb 25

The Income Tax (Exemption of Scottish Adult Disability Living Allowance) Regulations 2025, effective March 19, 2025, amend the Income Tax (Earnings and Pensions) Act 2003 to fully exempt Scottish Adult Disability Living Allowance from income tax.

This amendment is made under the authority of the Finance Act 2020 and clarifies the tax treatment of this specific benefit.

The Energy Bill Relief Scheme and Energy Bills Discount Scheme (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Wed 26th Feb 25

These regulations amend the Energy Bill Relief Scheme and Energy Bills Discount Scheme Regulations, clarifying and limiting supplier obligations to provide energy discounts after a defined date.

The amendments also adjust processes for dealing with disagreements between energy suppliers and customers and extend a specified timeframe within the Energy Prices Act 2022.

The changes primarily aim to streamline administration and provide clarity for energy suppliers while maintaining the targeted provision of energy support to customers.

The Child Benefit and Guardian's Allowance (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2025

Published: Tue 25th Feb 25

These regulations, effective April 7, 2025, amend the Child Benefit and Guardian's Allowance (Administration) Regulations 2003, the Guardian's Allowance (General) Regulations 2003, and the Child Benefit (General) Regulations 2006.

Key changes include removing outdated provisions related to refugee status and marital status in eligibility for benefits, updating approved training programs, and adjusting National Insurance number requirements for younger parents claiming child benefit.

The amendments aim to streamline administration, improve clarity, and modernize the benefit system.

The Whole of Government Accounts (Designation of Bodies) Order 2025

Published: Tue 25th Feb 25

The Whole of Government Accounts (Designation of Bodies) Order 2025 designates numerous public and local government bodies to provide financial information to the Treasury for the 2024-2025 financial year.

This data is used to compile the Whole of Government Accounts, aiming to improve transparency and accountability in public spending.

The Order came into force on March 18, 2025, and applies to England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.

The Treasury consulted with Welsh Ministers where deemed appropriate.

The Armed Forces Pensions (Remediable Service) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Tue 25th Feb 25

The Armed Forces Pensions (Remediable Service) (Amendment) Regulations 2025 amend various armed forces pension schemes, including the 1975, 2005, and Reserve Forces schemes.

Key changes include removing outdated definitions, correcting cross-references, and updating provisions related to continuity of service. These amendments aim to increase clarity and consistency across different schemes, streamlining administrative processes and ensuring a fairer calculation of pension entitlements for service members.

The Statutory Neonatal Care Pay (Administration) Regulations 2025

Published: Mon 24th Feb 25

These regulations outline the administrative procedures for the UK's statutory neonatal care pay.

They detail employer entitlement to reimbursement (92% of payments, or 100% for small employers), application processes for funding, authorized deductions from employer payments to HMRC, procedures for handling overpayments, employer record-keeping requirements, and information provisions for employees.

The regulations also cover inspection of employer records by HMRC officers, dispute resolution mechanisms and information requests related to entitlement.

The Statutory Neonatal Care Pay (Persons Abroad and Mariners) Regulations 2025

Published: Mon 24th Feb 25

These regulations, effective April 6, 2025, extend statutory neonatal care pay eligibility under the Social Security Contributions and Benefits Act 1992 to individuals working abroad, mariners, and those employed on the continental shelf.

The regulations specify conditions for eligibility, including employment location, employer liability for national insurance contributions, and periods of employment in the EEA. They also clarify the treatment of individuals under existing UK and EU social security legislation and establish procedures for compliance with time limits, particularly for those temporarily outside of the UK.

The Neonatal Care Leave and Pay (Consequential Amendments to Subordinate Legislation) Regulations 2025

Published: Mon 24th Feb 25

The regulations implement comprehensive changes across UK legislation to accommodate the new neonatal care leave and pay entitlements established by the Neonatal Care Act 2023.

The amendments span multiple areas including social security, employment benefits, pension schemes, and various public sector regulations, ensuring proper integration of neonatal care leave rights with existing statutory frameworks.

The Care and Support (Charging and Assessment of Resources) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Mon 24th Feb 25

These regulations, effective April 6, 2025, amend the 2014 Care and Support (Charging and Assessment of Resources) Regulations for England and Wales.

The amendments increase several financial thresholds related to personal expenses and minimum guaranteed income amounts for individuals receiving care.

These changes affect both those in care homes and those receiving care outside of care homes, impacting how local authorities calculate individual contributions towards their care costs.

The Universal Credit (Work-Related Requirements) In Work Pilot Scheme (Extension) Order 2025

Published: Fri 14th Feb 25

The Universal Credit (Work-Related Requirements) In Work Pilot Scheme (Extension) Order 2025 extends an existing pilot program testing mandated work requirements for employed Universal Credit claimants.

The extension, effective February 19, 2025, covers England, Wales, and Scotland, and continues the scheme for another twelve months.

The order leverages existing legislation and claims to have a non-significant impact, foregoing a full impact assessment.

This decision allows for continued data collection and evaluation of policy effectiveness.

The Community Radio Order 2025

Published: Fri 14th Feb 25

The Community Radio Order 2025, effective April 1, 2025, consolidates and amends existing legislation governing community radio in the UK. It defines community radio services, focusing on their non-commercial, community-beneficial nature and the obligations on licensees, such as promoting social gain and accountability to the served community.

The order modifies relevant sections of the Broadcasting Act 1990 and the Communications Act 2003, revokes previous related orders, and includes transitional provisions for existing licences.

The focus is on fostering participation from community members, and ensuring that services are provided primarily for social gain.

The Education (Student Fees, Awards and Support) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Thu 13th Feb 25

The regulations modify multiple aspects of student financial support in England, updating payment rates and loan amounts for the 2025/26 academic year.

Key changes include introducing lower fees for foundation years, extending support to bereaved partners of Gurkha and Hong Kong military unit veterans, enhancing disabled student allowances, and revising overseas territory definitions.

The amendments affect various existing regulations including student support, postgraduate loans, and fee limit conditions.

The Naval, Military and Air Forces Etc. (Disablement and Death) Service Pensions (Amendment) Order 2025

Published: Wed 12th Feb 25

The Naval, Military and Air Forces Etc. (Disablement and Death) Service Pensions (Amendment) Order 2025 amends the 2006 Order governing service pensions.

Key changes include updated rates for pensions, gratuities, and allowances for armed forces members disabled or killed in service before April 6, 2005.

The Order also modifies eligibility for mobility supplements, including those receiving the higher rate of the mobility component of Scottish Adult Disability Living Allowance, and simplifies the eligibility criteria.

The amendments take effect in March and April 2025, extending across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.

The Social Security (Contributions) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Tue 11th Feb 25

These regulations modify the Social Security (Contributions) Regulations 2001.

They mandate that employers claiming zero-rate secondary Class 1 National Insurance contributions for employees working in designated freeports or investment zones must include the employee's workplace postcode (or an HMRC-provided alternative code) in their Full Payment Submission.

This aims to improve data collection and ensure compliance with existing legislation regarding tax relief in these specific zones.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (Welfare Requirements) (Amendment) Regulations 2025

Published: Mon 10th Feb 25

These regulations amend the 2012 Early Years Foundation Stage (Welfare Requirements) Regulations to update the date referenced in regulation 3 to February 10, 2025.

This change is in response to a revised Qualifications Document outlining updated training and qualification requirements for early years providers.

The update facilitates the introduction of an experience-based route for early years practitioners to gain Level 3 status, impacting staff:child ratios.

The changes affect early years providers in England and Wales and are backed by the Childcare Act 2006.

The Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) (Transfer of Staff to the Civil Nuclear Police Authority) Regulations 2025

Published: Thu 6th Feb 25

These regulations govern the transfer of specified Ministry of Defence Police employees to the Civil Nuclear Police Authority on April 1, 2025.

The regulations ensure employment protection, mirroring provisions in the 2006 Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations (TUPE), covering contracts, rights, and liabilities.

They also address the transition of Ministry of Defence Police members into the Civil Nuclear Constabulary, and incorporate modifications regarding pension schemes.

The Exempt Charities Order 2025

Published: Thu 6th Feb 25

The Exempt Charities Order 2025, effective February 6th, 2025, designates St Mary's University, Twickenham as an exempt charity under the Charities Act 2011.

This exemption prevents registration with the Charity Commission and limits the Commission's powers, barring advisory roles at the charity's request and inquiries initiated by a principal regulator (in this case, the Office for Students).