Probationary periods at work

An initial period to assess a new employee. Less protective than employers assume.

What it means

A probationary period is a contractual arrangement, commonly three to six months, often with shorter notice.

Why it matters

It has no special status in law. Protection comes from the qualifying period for ordinary unfair dismissal, not from the clause — and several claims need no qualifying service at all.

What it looks like in practice

Use it: set expectations at the start, review at defined points, and confirm the outcome in writing. Extending it requires a contractual right to do so.

What to watch out for

Assuming dismissal during probation is risk-free. Discrimination, whistleblowing and automatically unfair reasons all apply from day one.

Where to get proper advice

https://www.acas.org.uk/