Constructive Dismissal Examples: A Guide for Employers
If an employee feels forced to resign because they’ve been mistreated at work, they may be able to claim constructive dismissal. As an employer, these cases can be costly and complex to defend, so being able to pre-empt any resignation decision can save you time and money. It can also help to safeguard a valuable […]
Exclusivity Clause: What Employers Need to Know
Ensuring that staff are available for work, and unable to work for competitors, can often be key to running an effective business. The following practical guide to exclusivity clauses looks at how these types of clauses can be used in the employment context, and when these are legally enforceable. What is an exclusivity clause? […]
Three Month Notice Period: UK Employer Guide
When an employee is dismissed or made redundant, or where they resign, there will usually be a requirement for notice to be given, either on the part of the employer or employee. In some cases, the notice period might be as long as three months. If this is an obligation which neither party necessarily wishes […]
Protected Period in Pregnancy: A Guide for UK Employers
Pregnancy and maternity are classed as one of nine protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010. The protected period refers to the timeframe during which pregnant employees and new mothers are afforded enhanced legal protections against discrimination and unfair treatment under UK law. Treating an employee unfavourably because of pregnancy, maternity, or taking maternity leave […]
Dismissal for Sickness Absence: UK Employer Guide
When an employee remains on long-term sick leave, or has a recurring pattern of time off work due to illness, you may have grounds for lawful dismissal for sickness absence, provided specific criteria are met. Employers, however, should proceed with caution and take advice to avoid risking tribunal claims. By law, dismissal for sickness absence should […]
Reasonable Travelling Distance: Employer Guidelines
If your organisation is moving to a new location or you are asking an employee to transfer to another office or branch, a key consideration will be determining whether the distance the employee will have to travel to their new workplace is ‘reasonable’. Unfortunately, the rules on travelling distance for work are far from clear, […]
How to Write a Reference (UK) 2026: Format, Examples & Legal Tips
An employee in need of a reference may be moving on to a different job role for all sorts of reasons, for example, if they are relocating, due to other personal circumstances, or simply because they want a fresh start or they are looking to progress their career. However, whatever the reason, they will almost […]
Summary Dismissal: Fair Procedure Guide
Dismissing an employee without notice, or payment in lieu of notice, requires employers to proceed with caution, not least to minimise the risk of a claim for unfair or wrongful dismissal. The following guide examines the law relating to summary dismissal, with practical advice on the procedures you will need to follow for the dismissal […]
Ill Health Severance Pay: Employer Guide & Rules
It’s a common misconception that dismissal due to ill health is automatically unfair or always unlawful. An employee can be both fairly and lawfully dismissed, as long as the employer has a valid reason, has made any reasonable adjustments where applicable, and has followed a fair procedure. Ill health severance pay is a financial payment […]
Employee or Worker: Legal Differences Explained
An individual’s legal rights and entitlements at work can differ significantly depending on whether they are classed as an employee or worker. In this guide, we explain the differences between these two types of employment status, including how legal status as either an employee or worker determine employment rights and responsibilities within the workplace. […]