3 Essential Questions for Employers

All employers know that employment law is complex and constantly changing. Failing to comply with your obligations as an employer can at best, cause a huge headache and at worst, can have serious financial implications for your business. 

If you do nothing else, at least take a moment to answer these three essential questions:

1. Have you complied with your obligation to provide a Statement of Particulars?

 An employee must be provided with this document within 2 months of their start date.  If it is not supplied then an employee can claim compensation from an employment tribunal.  This statement must contain certain important details.

How can we help?  We can advise you on what needs to be included and help draft the terms to suit your business.

2. Is your business protected if you dismiss an employee?

 This is an important document recording all of the agreed terms in one place.  If drafted correctly this document can help your business prevent an ex-employee from disclosing trade secrets or working for competitors for a certain amount of time.  In an employment contract an employer can set out more favourable terms in favour of its business.

How can we help? We can advise you and draft a contract that suits the needs of business.

3. Do your staff know your rules?

It is important for a business to have a list of comprehensive written rules set out in a staff handbook.  This provides fairness and consistency for both the employer and the employee.

Well written clear policies and procedures can prevent liability and protect an employer.  The handbook sets out a structure so when issues arise, neither the employee nor the employer will be surprised by the outcome.

Generally, a handbook should contain information to include the following: dress code, dispute procedures, performance reviews, rules on drugs and alcohol, health and safety, avoiding discrimination and harassment and discipline.

How can we help? We can draft a bespoke handbook, tailor-made to suit the needs of your business.

How did you do? If you answered ‘no’ to some or all of these questions why not speak to one of our specialist employment team? For the month of July, we are offering to draft a statement of terms, a standard contract of employment and a staff handbook for a fixed fee of £750 plus VAT*, which is a saving of at least 30% on our normal costs. This also includes an employment law health check where we will consider your existing contracts, policies and procedures.

That way, next time you are asked these questions you will have the peace of mind to answer ‘yes’!

For more information, contact our Head of Employment, Reyhana Koser on 01905 900919 or reyhana@bradleyhayneslaw.co.uk

*Terms and conditions apply

This publication is intended for general guidance and represents our understanding of the relevant law and practice as at 29 June 2017. Specific advice should be sought for specific cases; we cannot be held responsible for any action (or decision not to take action) made in reliance upon the content of this publication.