HR Articles

Since the implementation of Brexit, we were wondering whether to expect a diversion from EU employment laws and regulations at some point, but no timetable had previously been announced for reform. It is now anticipated that we will be witnessing one of the most important pieces of employment legislation to be introduced since the Equality Act 2010, with a major effect on workers’ rights and labour unions. 

How will employment play out in the Metaverse? Will employees be bound by the same rules? Will employers be subject to the same employment laws? How will harassment be dealt with? Is bullying in the Metaverse going to be an issue for employers to deal with? 

Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng’s ‘mini budget’ was announced today and is anything but ‘mini’ in terms of its potential impact on employment law.  He has proposed a number of important and extensive changes affecting all employers and workers. 

As many businesses were beginning to return to normality after the COVID-19 pandemic, they are now facing a new challenge in supporting staff through the cost of living crisis. Many individuals are faced with very real concerns about their living costs including how they will even afford to commute to work. With this in mind, businesses risk an unengaged and distracted workface if cost of living concerns are not alleviated.

Is now the time to switch formal work attire for a more relaxed and flexible workplace dress code?

A new law, ‘The Conduct of Employment Agencies and Employment Businesses (Amendment) Regulations 2022’ came into force on 21 July, which has the effect of allowing employment businesses to supply agency staff during strike action.  

This summer has seen a surge in industrial action largely related to rising inflation and the hugely publicised cost of living crisis. Further planned strikes are currently due to go ahead on 27 July, 30 July, 18 August and 20 August. This is expected to cause severe disruption and we answer some commonly asked questions regarding industrial action below. 

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is responsible for regulating and enforcing safety in the workplace. Following the tragic death of Donna Coleman, a teacher who worked at Burnley College, the University and College Union (UCU) raised Covid-19 health and safety concerns with the college and the HSE.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has meant that, for many people, the boundary between work and home life has become blurred. A vast amount of people were suddenly required to work from home which meant for many, homes became offices and this has resulted in many struggling to disconnect from work outside of their working hours. 

On Tuesday 10 May, Prince Charles delivered the Queen’s Speech, outlining the Government’s aims and priorities for the parliamentary year ahead. This year, the speech contained a large focus on post covid and post Brexit economic stability, and proposals to tackling the rising cost of living.