EMPLOYMENT LAW

DO YOU HAVE YOUR DUCKS IN A ROW?

The Government has launched a consultation on reforms to eight areas of Equality Law, which includes expanding equal pay laws for race & disability; as well as establishing a new equal pay enforcement body.

This is in addition to the expected extensive proposals currently being considered as part of the Employment Rights Bill; and proposed amendments to the Health & Safety at Work Act.

What we can conclude from this is that the rights of workers is an area which is definitely in the spotlight. This will no doubt mean more responsibility & accountability being placed on employers, and little margin for error.

This isn't meant to be a scaremongering exercise, more a reality check, and a heads up that a reactive approach when it comes to people practices, will no longer work; especially as Day One Rights for employees will also be increasing.

So as a small business, what can you do? How do you get to a point where your bases are covered at every stage of the employment cycle?

Employee Contracts: Not only is it a legal requirement for employees to have a written statement of particulars (Contract of Employment); but they're absolutely the first step in reducing risk for both the employer and the employee.

Handbook & Policies: It's already a legal requirement to have certain policies in place. But aside from that, Policies & Handbooks are important when it comes to communicating employee rights & entitlements. They also play a major role in making clear your requirements, expectations and procedures around the performance and conduct of your team.

Handbooks & policies can guide you through issues with a member of staff; and if you're faced with any unfamiliar scenarios, they can provide a script for managers to work with too.

Training: You can have all the policies in the world; but if your managers haven't a clue about employment law, or they're not sure about how to deal with any people issues that arise, then the risk to your company is huge. Anybody who has responsibility for anyone in your business, needs to know the basics when it comes to employment law and people practices.

Support: Smaller companies generally don't have the luxury of HR teams or lawyers to call upon when things get a bit tricky; so it's essential that you can access support. There are business groups and organisations that offer helplines, or specific services, and it's important that you find the right kind of support that works for you.

We can help with all of the above. Whether it's through digital documents, the Hospitality Hub, or bespoke consultancy services; we can make sure you've definitely got your ducks in a row.