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An employment contract is a key document that defines the terms of the professional relationship between an employer and an employee. It sets expectations, protects both parties, and ensures compliance with legal obligations. Well-drafted contracts help manage workplace disputes, safeguard business interests, and provide employees with clarity regarding their roles, compensation, and benefits. Clear, legally compliant contracts are more than just paperwork; they establish a successful working relationship. Whether hiring for permanent, fixed-term, or part-time roles, understanding the essential elements of an employment contract is important for creating a fair and transparent workplace. Types of Employment Contracts Employers in Northern [...]

Reforms in Employment Law UK - Preparing Employers for 2025 and 2026 Significant reforms in employment law in the UK are on the horizon for 2025 and 2026, and they’ll transform how employers manage worker rights and responsibilities. These aren’t minor tweaks; they’re substantial shifts that enhance employee protections, reshape employer obligations, and demand your attention.  But why all the fuss now? The upcoming legislation addresses long-standing employment concerns, from closing loopholes around zero-hour contracts to increasing transparency in dismissal practices. Employers who think ahead will be better positioned to navigate the evolving workplace landscape.  So, what exactly are these [...]

The four-day workweek is gaining global momentum as businesses and governments explore more flexible work models. Countries like Iceland, Belgium, and the UK have trialed shorter workweeks, yielding positive results, such as higher productivity, improved work-life balance, and reduced employee burnout. Companies like Microsoft Japan and Unilever have also tested this approach, reporting increased efficiency and job satisfaction. Unlike the traditional five-day workweek, a four-day workweek allows employees to earn the same salary while working fewer days. Some organisations opt for a 32-hour model, while others use a compressed schedule with longer daily shifts. As employee expectations shift, many employers [...]

Employees in the UK have a legal right to request remote or flexible work arrangements. Since 6 April 2024 employees have a day one right to make a request. Employers are legally required to consider these requests fairly and respond within two months. Flexible working benefits both employees and businesses. Workers gain better work-life balance, reduced commuting stress, and increased job satisfaction. Employers benefit from higher engagement, productivity, and talent retention. However, not all roles are suitable for remote work, and businesses must assess each request based on operational needs, teamwork requirements, and service delivery impact. A strong remote work [...]

Workplace bullying and harassment present significant challenges to both employees and employers, impacting morale, productivity, and legal compliance. Addressing these issues is critical to creating a respectful and equitable workplace while safeguarding against costly claims and reputational damage. Bullying refers to offensive, intimidating, or malicious behaviour intended to undermine or humiliate. Harassment, as defined under the Equality Act 2010, involves unwanted conduct related to protected characteristics, such as age, gender, race, or religion, that creates a hostile or degrading environment. While bullying is not explicitly covered by legislation, its mishandling can lead to constructive dismissal claims, making it essential for [...]

Significant changes will reshape employment law practices in 2025. This includes expected legislation to expand the rights for flexible working, adjustments to unfair dismissal rules, and new legislation under the Labour government. These updates will impact businesses of all sizes, requiring proactive strategies to maintain compliance and ensure workforce stability. The Labour government’s legislative agenda introduces reforms like the "right to switch off" and stricter fire and rehire practices regulations.  HR Team provides expert HR Consultancy services, HR Packages and facilitates HR webinars to guide businesses through these complex changes. With tailored advice and practical tools, HR Team ensures organisations [...]