HR & Employment Law Insights

In the current economic climate, making a position redundant by restructuring has become a pressing consideration for many businesses. Rising operational costs and the recent increase in National Insurance contributions for employers are placing significant financial...

The topic of "return to office" has been a highly debated one as businesses adjust their workforce strategies. While remote working was a necessity during the pandemic, employers are now encouraging employees to return to the workplace, citing reasons from improved...

Managing people effectively is crucial for any organisation’s success, and line managers play a pivotal role in this. They are often the primary link between employees and the business, responsible for creating an environment where team members feel motivated,...

The UK Employment Rights Bill, with its latest flexible working request reforms, is set to transform the workplace landscape. This legislation focuses on making flexible working a default right, rather than a privilege. This marks a significant shift for both...

According to ONS figures, as of March this year, around 1,030,000 employees in the UK are on zero-hour contracts. If you employ staff on this type of contract, it's essential to understand and clearly outline zero-hours contract holiday pay and entitlements. In this...

Sexual harassment in the workplace is an urgent and growing issue in the UK, demanding a proactive response from HR teams and organisations. Tribunal cases in the UK related to sexual harassment increased by 7% from January to September 2024, rising to 125 cases from...

The Labour Employment Rights Bill represents a pivotal shift in UK employment with sweeping reforms aimed at enhancing workers' rights and promoting fairer workplaces. A key focus of this legislation is the introduction of enhanced "Day One" rights and updates to...

From 1st October 2024, under the Employment Allocation of Tips Act 2023, employers must ensure that tips, gratuities, and service charges are given to their workers in full, without deductions, and are distributed fairly and transparently. The treatment of tips in the...

In the first Autumn budget since the Labour Government came into power, Chancellor, Rachel Reeves announced a range of measures to ''fix the foundations of the economy and deliver change by protecting working people.''  Most significant measures included an increase...

In today's dynamic business world, companies need to be agile and innovative to stay competitive. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by broadening employees' skills and experience. Secondments are an increasingly popular approach to achieving this. This...

Constructive dismissal is a term used in UK employment law to describe situations where an employee feels they have no choice but to resign due to their employer's conduct. When an employee successfully proves this in a tribunal, they may be awarded a constructive...

Neurodiversity refers to the natural variations in the human brain and encompasses forms of neurodivergence such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and dyspraxia. This term highlights the vast range of variations individuals perceive and process information, communicate, and...

We are excited to welcome back Shannon, our Marketing Executive, who has returned to work after eight-months of maternity leave. As Shannon settles back into her role, we thought it would be a great opportunity to catch up with her. We asked her a few questions so you...

The new sexual harassment duty is set to come in to force on 26th October 2024. This will mean employers have greater responsibilities to “take reasonable steps” to protect their employees from sexual harassment. This shifts the burden from reactive measures, where...

As an employer, it can be frustrating and challenging when an employee is Calling in Sick on a Declined Holiday. This may not only feel very suspicious, it can also create tensions within the workplace. However, Even if you feel strongly that the absence is not...

A staff appraisal, also known as a performance review or evaluation, is a crucial process within any organisation. It offers an opportunity for employers and employees to discuss performance, set future goals, and identify areas for development. Understanding the...

The long-awaited draft Employment Rights Bill was finally published on Thursday 10th October, marking a pivotal moment for employment law in the UK. As part of Labour's ambitious new deal, the bill promises sweeping changes aimed at improving job security, worker...

Rennie has successfully completed his Digital Marketing Apprenticeship with The HR Booth!  Over the past 10 months, Rennie has been working through his portfolio and has completed a Diploma in Digital Marketing.  Not only that, Rennie has been working with us as a...

It has been a busy September for The HR Booth team! There has been various highlights as we have been out & about at events as well as appearing on podcasts, and you can read all about it below. We attended the Fife Business Expo in Dunfermline. It was great to...