Understanding COT3 Agreements: Complete Guide
A COT3 agreement is a legally binding settlement used to resolve workplace disputes. It is commonly used as an alternative to tribunal proceedings, allowing both parties to settle claims quickly and avoid litigation. Proper use of COT3 agreements can resolve disputes efficiently and maintain workplace relationships. The agreement is typically negotiated through Acas Early Conciliation, […]
Mental Health Days at Work: Employers’ Guide
Mental health days at work refers to time taken off by employees to focus on their mental wellbeing, often as part of sick leave entitlement. While there is no specific legal framework for mental health days in the UK, employers have a duty under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 to protect both […]
How Long to Keep Ex-Employee Records in the UK
Employers in the UK are legally required to retain ex-employee records for specific periods after employment ends. Personnel records include the employee’s personal details, pay and tax information, working time, absences, training, career progression and any disciplinary or grievance matters. An employer’s duties to retain personnel records are governed by a combination of business and […]
ACAS Code of Practice: Overview for Employers
The ACAS Code of Practice provides guidelines for employers and employees on managing workplace disputes, specifically around disciplinary and grievance procedures. Issued by the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS), it sets out the minimum standard of fairness that employers should follow. While not legally binding, failure to adhere to the Code can have serious […]
Mental Health First Aider: Role & Benefits Explained
With mental health being one of the leading causes of sickness absence, and with thousands of employees losing their jobs each year to mental health-related problems, employers are increasingly looking to find ways to support the emotional wellbeing of their employees. A Mental Health First Aider (MHFA) is an individual trained to provide initial support […]
Line Manager: Key Roles, Skills & Best Practices
Line managers play a vital role in the operation of a business, supervising and managing employees on a daily basis and acting as a liaison between the workforce and management functions. For UK employers, the role of line managers requires careful consideration to ensure they are equipped to fulfil their responsibilities. One of the main […]
How to Dismiss an Employee for Poor Performance
Before an employer can lawfully dismiss an employee for poor performance, they must first show they have supported the employee and allowed them the opportunity to improve and meet the standards required in their role. Dismissal should always be considered a measure of last resort. The goal of performance management should be to help improve […]
How to Minimise Recruitment Bias
Recruitment bias refers to when unfair or subjective factors influence hiring decisions, leading to discrimination against certain candidates. It can be conscious or unconscious and often stems from stereotypes, personal preferences or assumptions. Unconscious bias, in particular, can affect decisions without recruiters even realising it. Common forms include gender bias, age bias, racial bias and affinity […]
Performance Improvement Plan: Managers’ Guide
When an employee is underperforming at work, it can be a tricky and sensitive situation for managers to deal with. Mishandling the issue can potentially lead to complaints or even tribunal claims if the result is a capability dismissal. Putting in place a performance improvement plan (PIP) is generally recommended to help support an employee […]
Phased Return to Work: Guide for Employers
A phased return to work allows employees to gradually resume their duties after a period of absence, often following illness, injury or long-term health issues. It usually involves reducing hours, workload or responsibilities for a temporary period, giving the employee time to adjust while supporting their recovery. For UK employers, implementing a phased return requires […]