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The UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR), alongside the Data Protection Act 2018, sets out the rules for handling personal data. It places clear responsibilities on organisations, ensuring data is processed lawfully, individuals’ rights are...
Redundancy can be especially sensitive when it affects someone during a “protected period.” These protected periods include: During pregnancy During statutory maternity leave Up to 18 months after the birth (an additional protected period...
Internal secondments are a common tool employers use to cover short-term needs or specific projects. Essentially, they involve moving an employee from their usual role to a temporary position, with the expectation that they will return to their original role...
Whistleblowing can often feel like one of those “this probably won’t happen to us” scenarios… until it does. And when it happens, it usually arrives unexpectedly, carries an emotional element, and may involve legal risk. Handled...
Restrictive covenants are contractual provisions that allow employers to limit certain activities an employee may undertake after their employment ends. They can be an important tool for managing the risks associated with employees leaving to join...
Underperformance in the workplace is something that most employers will encounter at some stage. While many organisations invest significant time in recruitment and training, even the most capable employees can experience periods where their performance...
Internal investigations are a vital part of fairly managing workplace issues. Whether dealing with allegations of misconduct or grievances, a thorough investigation is essential. It helps establish the facts, supports informed decision-making, and ensures...
With an increase in flexible working requests in the UK, many employees are requesting to work remotely part-time or even full-time. A CIPD report found that 18% of employers have experienced an increase in flexible working requests since the introduction of...
Managing sickness absence is one of those areas that sounds straightforward in theory but can become surprisingly complex in practice. Most employers want to be supportive – and rightly so. But balancing compassion with operational needs, legal risk,...
Welcoming a new baby is one of life’s biggest and most exciting changes, and for employees, maternity leave provides the time and space they need to focus on their growing family. For employers, how they respond to a maternity leave request can make a...
As of April 2025, working parents gained the right to take neonatal care leave if their child received neonatal care for an uninterrupted period of 7 days within 28 days of birth. For employers, understanding neonatal care leave is essential to ensuring...
References continue to play a role in recruitment decisions, even as many employers move towards more standardised and risk‑averse hiring practices. There is no general legal obligation in the UK to provide a reference unless required by contract or...
Since COVID, remote or hybrid working has allowed employees to achieve better work-life balance and remove the pain of commuting. Whilst flexible working arrangements can be beneficial, there are circumstances where they would not suit a business need. This...
Redundancy is a form of dismissal that occurs when a role is no longer required within a business. This typically happens when an employer reduces its workforce due to economic downturns or restructuring. This article will examine how employers can manage...
Being involved in an Employment Tribunal claim can be daunting for both employers and employees. Cases that include sensitive personal or medical information often attract wider public attention, making privacy a key concern. Rule 50 of the Employment...
Employee morale and motivation are topics that frequently arise in the workplace, particularly during periods of change, increased workload or economic uncertainty and are increasingly relevant with the Employment Rights Act 2025 changes later this year....
In a recent High Court case, a former employee was found in serious contempt of court for providing false evidence during an employment tribunal claim. Such a finding carries severe personal consequences, including imprisonment and fines, highlighting the...
As the new year begins, it brings with it a renewed sense of motivation and the opportunity to establish new routines and adopt healthier habits. The familiar “new year, new me” mindset encourages people to reflect, reset, and make positive...
When implementing a Christmas shutdown, it is important to understand the key considerations involved. With Christmas shutdowns common in many organisations, the relevant clause in the employment contract must be carefully drafted to provide clarity for both...
Artificial intelligence (AI) is evolving at an unprecedented pace, with an increasing number of people integrating applications such as ChatGPT into their daily lives. With the rise of generative AI (GenAI) tools capable of performing a wide range of...
As businesses evolve and laws change, employers may need to update the terms and conditions of their employees' contracts to reflect new working patterns, roles, pay or business priorities. However, changing terms requires a careful and consultative...
For many UK employers, disciplinary issues are a routine part of business. From poor performance to absenteeism, procedures are often overlooked or neglected, leading to legal challenges that could have been avoided with proper attention, and can all turn a...
In 2022, over 43,000 individuals in the UK were sent to prison to serve sentences, and over 12 million people hold a criminal record. According to the Ministry of Justice, around 22-23% of individuals between the ages of 16 and 64 have a criminal record. At...
In today’s increasingly globalised workforce, multilingualism is a valuable asset, enabling communication to transcend borders. However, when employees speak different languages in the workplace, communication can become a barrier rather than a bridge....
Autumn comes with numerous occasions, from holidays, religious observances, and cultural celebrations, which make it a great opportunity for workplaces to bond, increase morale, foster openness, and celebrate diversity. Yet, these occasions also pose a...
Inclusive hiring isn’t a passing HR buzzword – it’s a legal, ethical, and strategic necessity. Many employers proudly state that their recruitment process is “fair and open.” But what if, beneath the surface, seemingly neutral...
As flexible working gradually becomes the norm, employers and HR professionals often find managing flexible working requests to be a complex and uncertain practical challenge. In this article, we’ll explore how to navigate the complexities of flexible...
Workplace burnout isn’t a passing HR trend; it’s a growing risk factor with real legal, financial, and reputational consequences. Many employers pride themselves on having a driven culture. But what if that drive has quietly tipped into...
Becoming a parent is a life-changing experience and unique to every family. While it is a joyful and exciting chapter, the reality of juggling family responsibilities with professional commitments soon becomes the reality. Parents are often managing...
Many employers, often wonder which benefits need to be included in a contract of employment. In this article, we’ll explore which benefits employers are legally required to include in a contract of employment, which benefits are discretionary, and...
In recent years, the debate around UK employment law has shifted firmly towards fairness, transparency, and stronger enforcement. With the introduction of the Employment Rights Bill, the Government has signalled its intention to enhance worker protections...
The way employers engage interns, volunteers and individuals undertaking unpaid work may be heading for significant change. The Department for Business and Trade has recently launched a consultation to examine how unpaid internships and similar arrangements...
During the COVID-19 pandemic, our approach to working from home changed drastically. Employers were forced to adapt their working practices, shifting from standard arrangements to allowing employees to work from home and, in some cases, even considering...
For employers, understanding when to make reasonable adjustments for neurodivergent employees can be challenging, especially when a formal diagnosis is not in place. This raises the question: Do you need to wait for an official diagnosis before beginning...
In today’s digitally connected world, social media has changed the way we connect, collaborate, and work. Millions of people in the UK use social media platforms like Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, Snapchat, and LinkedIn every day. While...
In a rapidly changing labour market, ensuring young people have access to safe, flexible, and meaningful employment has never been more important. For many teenagers, part-time work is a vital first step into the world of work – helping them build...
Workplaces are more than just spaces for productivity, they are also social environments where friendships naturally form and sometimes, these relationships evolve into something more personal. While many workplace romances are harmless, they can create...
Whistleblowing is a vital mechanism within the workplace, ensuring that serious concerns such as fraud, health and safety violations, or legal non-compliance are reported and addressed. Under UK employment law, whistleblowers, those who raise such concerns,...
The Employment Rights Bill (ERB) is set to introduce significant changes to UK employment law. Aimed at modernising workplace protections while preserving business flexibility, the ERB introduces a wide range of legal obligations for employers, along with a...
Wage deductions are a routine aspect of payroll administration in any business. These typically include income tax, National Insurance contributions, pension payments, and occasionally other authorised deductions, such as the repayment of training costs....
As technology becomes more and more implemented into everyday life, the way we work is under a major transformation. The traditional 9-to-5 office routine is giving way to flexible, hybrid working arrangements that challenge the rigid assumptions about...
Many workers in the UK rely on tips as part of their remuneration. For example, a study carried out by Biffa found that hospitality is the 3 rd largest employer in the UK, with over 1.8 million people working in the sector and generating over £40...
Frequent short-term absences, which can range from one day to a week, can become a costly and disruptive matter for employers if not properly managed. While occasional illness is a reality to be expected in any workplace, a pattern of repeated absences...
When leaving a position, many employees anticipate receiving a reference from their employer to assist with future career opportunities. However, is there a legal obligation on the part of the employer to provide such a reference? This article will examine...
Creating an inclusive environment is more than just a buzzword, it is essential for the well-being and success of the employees and organisations. Despite progress in social attitudes, many LGBTQ+ individuals still face challenges such as discrimination,...
In today’s working environments, anxiety has become all too familiar for employees at all levels. While stress and pressure are inherent to many jobs, the ongoing mental strain that results in workplace anxiety is far more disruptive than most realise....
As our workplaces and ways of working continue to evolve, so does our awareness of the significant impact mental health has on employee wellbeing and employer success. The Covid-19 pandemic has shifted our focus on mental health challenges, prompting many...
What is the Keep Britain Working Review? In January 2025, the UK Government launched the Keep Britain Working review, an independent investigation commissioned by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and the Department for Business and Trade (DBT)....
The recent Supreme Court ruling in For Women Scotland Ltd v The Scottish Ministers has significant implications for UK employers, particularly regarding how the terms “sex” and “gender” are interpreted under the Equality Act 2010...
In recent years, assistance animals in the workplace have become an increasingly prominent and important topic. As society places greater emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility, more employers recognise the vital role these animals play in supporting...
This week's article is the second in our two-part Wednesday Wonders series exploring the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations 2006, commonly known as TUPE. In Part 1 , we covered the core principles, history, and purpose...
Welcome to Part 1 of our Wednesday Wonders 2-part series, where we explore a key area of UK employment law: the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations 2006, commonly known as TUPE. This week, we'll explain: What TUPE stands...
As we progress through 2025, the UK employment law landscape is on the verge of substantial change. The proposed Employment Rights Bill (ERB) introduces several transformative measures aimed at reducing workplace inequality, enhancing pay transparency,...
Settlement agreements are a valuable tool for resolving workplace disputes and ending employment relationships on agreed terms. However, both employers and employees can make critical errors when drafting or negotiating these agreements. These mistakes can...
Settlement agreements are critical in resolving employment disputes, providing a structured and legally binding way for employers and employees to part ways on agreed terms. However, navigating the legal and practical complexities of these agreements can be...
As UK workplaces become increasingly diverse, it is more important than ever for employers to create an inclusive environment that recognises and accommodates the cultural and religious needs of all employees. For Muslim employees, understanding the...
Significant changes are coming to UK employment law. The Employment Rights Bill 2024 brings forward concepts initially introduced in Labour's election manifesto and their Next Steps to Make Work Pay document. These have now evolved into key...
The concept of a four-day working week has gained significant attention as businesses seek ways to enhance productivity, job satisfaction, and work-life balance. Under this model, employees work four days a week while maintaining their full salary....
Employee wellbeing in a post-pandemic world is an essential focus for businesses today. The consequences of employee burnout, such as absenteeism, high turnover rates, and potential tribunal claims, can significantly impact your organisation....
On 10th October 2024, the Employment Rights Bill 2024 (the Bill) was introduced to Parliament, outlining 28 proposed employment law reforms to enhance workers' rights and promote fair treatment in the workplace. Key proposals within the Bill include...
Workplace disputes can be challenging for both employers and employees and may lead to costly and time-consuming Employment Tribunal (ET) claims. However, before a case reaches that stage, there is an opportunity to resolve the issue through ACAS Early...
Zero-hours contracts have been in use for decades, particularly in industries with fluctuating demand, such as healthcare, hospitality, and retail. Historically, businesses maintained a pool of bank or relief staff available at short notice without any...
The focus on 'Inclusion' is increasingly present in many employers' Equality and Diversity policies. However, there is growing discussion about the importance of prioritising 'belonging and inclusion' over traditional Equality and...
The concept of work has evolved dramatically throughout history. From the early days when humans were hunters and gatherers, to the establishment of property ownership and class systems, work was primarily tied to land and resources. Over time, these...
The Employment Rights Bill 2024 is set to bring significant changes to UK businesses. While some may view these updates as another layer of compliance, forward-thinking organisations recognise them as an opportunity to thrive in an ever-evolving...
Confidentiality clauses are a standard feature of settlement agreements. These clauses impose a duty on both employers and employees to keep to the terms of the settlement, along with details about the dispute or termination, private. Their purpose is to...
Deciding whether to negotiate settlement agreement terms can be challenging, particularly if you have not encountered such an agreement before. Understanding what is reasonable in terms of compensation, confidentiality, and post-employment restrictions is...
Settlement agreements are a legally binding contract between an employer and employee. They are commonly used to manage the end of employment on mutually agreed terms. These agreements typically address key issues such as compensation, confidentiality, and...
Settlement agreements (formerly known as compromise agreements) play a crucial role in resolving workplace disputes and ensuring a smooth exit for employees. This guide outlines what settlement agreements are, their key features, and how they benefit both...
The 'List of Issues' is an essential document in Employment Tribunal proceedings. It outlines the key questions the Judge and panel will address during the hearing, ensuring the trial remains focused on the claimant's claims. The...
Navigating the world of employment law can be challenging, especially when dealing with Employment Tribunal claims. Striking out a claim in this context can be difficult because tribunals prefer not to dismiss claims outright, particularly when the...
When disputes arise between employers and employees, Employment Tribunals serve as a key platform for resolving conflicts. The Tribunal's decision, referred to as a Judgement, is legally binding and aims to reach a fair and equitable outcome for the...
Nicola Hinds' recent legal victory against her former employer, Mitie, has shone a spotlight on the issue of maternity and pregnancy discrimination in the workplace. Nicola Hinds successfully pursued a discrimination claim (and constructive...
Employers who harness software to help manage productivity and other employee activity may find themselves inadvertently overstepping data protection regulations. Electronic monitoring of employees has risen in tandem with the increase in home working...
There are many steps to consider when bringing or defending a tribunal claim, including preparing witness statements. What is a witness statement? Both claimants and respondents will almost always have a witness to the relevant proceedings. This...
Settlement Agreements are often utilised to help manage the exit process when an employee leaves their place of employment, especially in redundancy and dismissal situations. By signing a Settlement Agreement, the employee agrees to waive their legal...
The recent resurgence of attention on the Sub-postmaster injustice has again thrust the Post Office into the spotlight. The ITV documentary 'Mr Bates vs The Post Office' has sparked discussions on social media, shedding light on fundamental...
We are thrilled to announce the eagerly anticipated launch of our groundbreaking podcast, Peace of Pod, scheduled for the 26th of January! Brace yourself for an enriching journey into key legal and business topics, carefully curated to assist...
Facing redundancy can be a challenging and uncertain time for employees. It is crucial to clearly understand the redundancy process and your rights as an employee to ensure a fair and legally compliant procedure. In this article, we will delve into the...
As we move into the holiday season many workplaces may have started organising staff Christmas parties. While a Christmas party can be a great opportunity for staff to mingle and enjoy themselves, it is still an extension of the workplace and employers owe...
Status does not confer special protection regarding bullying or sexual harassment. Bullying has been hitting the headlines in recent weeks, demonstrating that no matter how high you fly, wings can be burned. It is behaviour that has seen Dominic Raab and...
The question of holiday pay for the additional bank holiday this year is causing somewhat of a headache for employers across the UK. The extra bank holiday is for the upcoming Coronation on the 6th of May, where people will raise a toast to the King. The...
It's no secret that adverse weather can impact businesses, employees, and their livelihoods. From icy roads to severe thunderstorms, extreme weather can disrupt normal operations and leave employers and employees with difficult decisions about how to...
New legislation set to tackle harassment in the workplace. New legislation is set to place greater responsibility on organisations to protect employees against harassment, including sexual harassment. Employers are being urged to prepare in...
New legislation set to tackle harassment in the workplace. New legislation is set to place greater responsibility on organisations to protect employees against harassment, including sexual harassment. Employers are being urged to prepare in...
Last month the Unite Union secured an eye-watering 17.6% salary pay deal at the Rolls Royce Goodwood car plant. In a winter of discontent (where the cost of living crisis is biting, and the public sector is seeing strike action intensify), this seems...
Deciding to suspend an employee can be a stressful situation for any employer. Failing to follow the proper procedures can harm your relationship with the employee and may even lead to a tribunal claim. To help employers navigate this tricky aspect of...
Tattoos and body piercings can be a grey area with mixed opinions and attitudes. However, are employers allowed to judge an individual based on their tattoos and body piercings, or could that be seen as discrimination? A recent UK study carried out by...
As 2022 draws to a close we look back and summarise some of the key employment law developments of the past year. Holiday pay calculations for casual workers In July 2022 the Supreme Court finally handed down its judgement on the case of Harpur v Brazel ,...
As we near the end of 2022 some employers may be preparing to conduct annual end of the year performance appraisals. When done well, employee appraisals can be a valuable tool for employers. They give you a chance to provide feedback, address performance...
When an employer carries out disciplinary procedures and hearings, employees should attend in order to state their case. If an employee is unable to attend a hearing, the employer should make an effort to postpone the hearing to a new mutually convenient...
The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has recently released new draft guidance for employers on monitoring employees. The latest guidance will replace the relevant sections in the current Employment Practices Data Protection Code and is intended...
When employees book holiday, it is generally understood by employers that requests can be refused for legitimate reasons or they can request employees to take holiday for specific dates and time periods – but what about pre-booked leave. Can an...
In the wake of the Great Resignation comes a new phenomenon that may be of concern to many employers: “quiet quitting.” Quiet quitting is when employees only perform the minimum that is required by their contract of employment and no more. Such...
Using an unpaid work trial is a practice that is often used by businesses as part of their recruitment process. Employers may wish to examine if the potential employee can demonstrate the required skills for the role and handle the pressure in a real working...
With the cost of living crisis affecting everyone in the UK, many employers are trying to find ways of assisting their employees through these times and helping their money to go further. According to the latest figures from the Office for National...
The Bradford Factor (or Bradford Formula) is a mathematical formula for employers to assess and measure the effect – or damage – an employee’s absence pattern has on its business and to fairly compare the attendance of its staff by...
Social media can be used in many positive ways. However, for employers it can create many difficulties with employee use of social media coming at a price. This is both in terms of lost productivity in businesses which allow free Internet access during work...
Our clients often ask us whether they should be monitoring diversity and if so, the questions to ask. In some cases you will be obliged to carry out diversity monitoring anyway (due to the size of your organisation or the sector that you work in) but really...
We are delighted to announce that on Friday 1 st July 2022, the Warner Goodman LLP Peace of Mind team were awarded with a “Highly Recommended” award at the LawNet 2022 Awards, in the Team of the Year (Business Law) category. The...
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