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Employment & HR

Probation Review Letter Template

A probation review letter records whether an employee has passed, failed or had their probation extended. Clear documentation supports fair decisions during the early months.

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What this probation review letter covers

When you need a probation review letter

2026 update. Even during probation, day-one rights under the Employment Rights Act 2025 apply.

The legal framework

Understanding the law behind a probation review letter helps you use it well. Here is the key UK legislation that applies:

Employment Rights Act 1996
The foundation of UK employment law — sets out the core rights around contracts, dismissal, redundancy and the written statement of particulars.
Employment Rights Act 2025
The most significant reform in a generation. Introduced day-one rights to statutory sick pay and certain family leave, strengthened protections for low-hours workers, and created the Fair Work Agency. Being phased in through 2026–2027.
Equality Act 2010
Prohibits discrimination in the workplace across nine protected characteristics — relevant to every policy and contract.
On the horizon. Further Employment Rights Act 2025 provisions continue to commence through 2026 and 2027, including an expected reduction in the unfair dismissal qualifying period from two years to around six months.

Frequently asked questions

Can probation be extended?

Yes, provided the contract allows it. The letter should set out the new end date and the reasons.

Do day-one rights apply during probation?

Yes. Many statutory rights, including those introduced in 2026, apply from day one regardless of probationary status.

How Legal Lift helps

Answer a few plain-English questions and our AI generator produces a tailored probation review letter, ready to edit, download as PDF or Word, and e-sign with LegalSign. Every template is kept current with UK law, and our SRA-regulated solicitor partners are available if you'd like it reviewed.

This page explains the law in general terms to help you understand your probation review letter. It is information, not legal advice. For guidance on your specific circumstances, our SRA-regulated solicitor partners are here to help.

Related templates

Employment ContractZero-Hours ContractSettlement AgreementStaff HandbookDisciplinary PolicyGrievance Policy

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