Redundancy Process: Step-By-Step Guide
The redundancy process is a legal framework that employers in the UK must follow when reducing their workforce due to business needs. Redundancy occurs when a role is no longer required, often due to changes in business operations, such as restructuring, closure, or technological advancements. In practice, redundancy can be one of the most stressful workplace […]
How to Conduct a Welfare Meeting
A welfare meeting is a supportive and informal discussion between an employer and an employee to address concerns about the employee’s health, wellbeing or personal circumstances, as part of an organisation’s absence management procedure. If conducted properly, the meeting should allow the employer to understand any issues affecting the employee’s work and explore matters such […]
Swearing at Work: Advice for Employers
Swearing at work refers to the use of inappropriate, offensive or profane language in the workplace. Whether or not swearing at work is acceptable will depend on the context and the employer’s expectations of its workforce. In some working environments, swearing may be commonplace and culturally accepted as part of everyday communication between colleagues. But […]
Capability Procedure for HR & Managers
A capability procedure is a formal process used by employers to address an employee’s underperformance due to a lack of skill, knowledge, or ability, rather than misconduct. It ensures that employers manage performance issues fairly, transparently and in line with employment law. However, in practice, correctly following a capability procedure can be a practical and […]
Collective Bargaining & Agreements
Collective bargaining is a process where employers and trade unions negotiate terms and conditions of employment, such as pay, working hours and benefits. It is a key part of industrial relations in the UK and aims to ensure fair treatment of employees while maintaining a productive working environment. Agreements reached through collective bargaining are legally […]
Working During Maternity Leave: Employers’ Guide
Working during maternity leave in the UK can take several forms, including Keeping in Touch (KIT) days, self employment or working for another employer. KIT days allow employees to work up to 10 days during their maternity leave without ending their leave or losing statutory maternity pay (SMP). These days are entirely optional and must […]
Custom And Practice In Employment Contracts
Custom and practice refers to unwritten workplace practices that, over time, become implied terms of an employee’s contract. These practices develop through consistent, long-standing actions that are known to and accepted by both employers and employees, such as regular annual bonuses or extra holiday days may become contractual if consistently provided without formal agreement. The […]
What Are Fair Redundancy Selection Criteria?
Redundancy selection criteria are used by employers to decide which employees will be made redundant during a workforce reduction process. These criteria must be fair, objective and transparent to reduce the risk of claims of unfair dismissal. Employers commonly base their selection criteria on factors such as length of service, skills and qualifications, performance or […]
Employee Signed Off Work with Stress?
Stress-related sickness absence has become increasingly prevalent in the workplace. Employers face a balancing act between supporting their employees’ wellbeing while minimising the risk of operational disruption and impact on other employees resulting from individuals being signed off work with stress. The following guide examines the rights and responsibilities of employees who are absent due […]
Restructuring & Role Changes: Guide for Employers
Restructuring and role changes occur when an organisation makes adjustments to its structure, workforce or job roles to better meet business needs. Examples include combining roles, changing job responsibilities or removing positions to improve efficiency, reduce costs, or adapt to market conditions. Restructuring can, however, be a challenging and unsettling experience for all those involved. […]