Britain Sets Sights on Expanding NDA Ban in Workplace Misconduct Cases

The UK government is considering broadening its planned ban on non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) that silence victims of workplace harassment, discrimination, and abuse. The proposed changes could extend the ban to agency workers and the self-employed in addition to permanent staff, as part of a 12-week consultation announced on Wednesday.

This consultation seeks feedback on whether planned protections should be broadened, the validity criteria for NDAs, and which workers should have the right to speak about their experiences. Employment Rights Minister Kate Dearden emphasized the government’s commitment to ending the culture of silence in workplaces.

Campaigners, such as Zelda Perkins of Can't Buy My Silence, argue that NDAs have historically perpetuated sexism and discrimination. They advocate for stronger legislation to protect victims. The government also plans to address whistleblowing laws, aiming to enact new regulations by 2027 to curb the misuse of confidentiality agreements.