TUC makes fresh call for October holiday
The Trades Union Congress is renewing its campaign for an additional October bank holiday, arguing it would encourage volunteering and community participation. The UK currently has fewer bank holidays than most European countries, with eight compared to an EU average of 10.9.
Commute to work reaches all time high
More than 1.3 million workers in London now spend over an hour commuting daily, with long commutes rising sharply across the UK. The Trades Union Congress reports average commute times of 54 minutes per day and calls for employers to offer flexible working arrangements to ease worker stress.
Workers waste 40 minutes every day ‘social not-working’
Employees waste over 40 minutes daily on non-work activities like gossiping, texting, and online shopping, totaling nearly six lost working days per year. The research reveals regional variations in time-wasting habits, with London workers most guilty and northwesterners spending the most time gossiping.
HR must help to design new diplomas
HR and learning professionals must play an active role in designing new work-based diplomas to ensure they meet employer needs and gain workplace acceptance, according to the CIPD. The organization warns that without early engagement from HR and learning experts, the qualifications risk failing despite strong employer demand for work-relevant skills training.
Crisis point: Dealing with compassionate leave
Employers have no legal obligation to provide paid compassionate leave for family emergencies or bereavement, though employees are entitled to unpaid time off for dependants. Having a clear, consistently applied policy can help balance staff support with business needs while avoiding discrimination claims.
Is HR failing call centre workforces?
British call centres have an average staff turnover of 25 per cent, with call centre workers ranking among the least satisfied in the UK. Research suggests HR departments are failing to address persistent issues of low pay, poor career prospects, and workplace stress in these high-pressure roles.
HR tip: Modest pay increase
When an employee resigns after receiving a modest pay increase tied to poor section performance, constructive dismissal claims are unlikely to succeed if the employee understood the rationale immediately. However, claims based on unlawful discrimination remain possible.
Disability qualification launched
The first disability awareness qualification has launched to help employers meet legal requirements. Education Development International’s Level 1 Award covers disability rights, legislation, and inclusive practices, available online or paper-based.
Intuition as a business tool
HR business partners can leverage intuition as a strategic decision-making tool. Scientific research shows intuition isn’t just a feeling but the brain’s ability to process complex information and experiences, making it invaluable for solving high-level business challenges alongside logic.
Getting the most out of recruitment technology
Discover 10 expert tips for maximizing your recruitment technology investment. Learn how to prepare your process, improve candidate communication, optimize your career site, ensure user collaboration, and select the right solution for your organization’s needs.
CIPD calls on employers to manage ‘external’ parties
The CIPD recommends that employers effectively manage external suppliers and consultants to boost business performance. The professional body’s new report explores strategies for managing these third parties, who bring valuable knowledge essential to delivering products and services.
Blue ‘skills’ card proposal for immigrants
The European Commission proposes a blue card for skilled immigrants in the EU, but faces criticism over restrictions on worker mobility within member states and concerns about limiting fundamental EU freedoms.
BT launches cancer campaign for staff
BT has launched a six-week cancer awareness campaign for its 104,000 employees and 120,000 pensioners worldwide. The initiative aims to help staff reduce cancer risk through lifestyle changes, spot early warning signs, and support colleagues diagnosed with the disease.
Agency workers/contractors v employees
Explore how to effectively engage agency workers and contractors in appraisals, succession planning, and company events while maintaining their distinct employment status. Learn practical strategies for treating contingent staff fairly without creating implicit employee relationships.
Moving on up
Promotions bring excitement but also stress for the promoted employee and their team. HR plays a crucial role in managing the transition smoothly through clear communication, proper support systems, and ensuring promotion criteria are fair and transparent to prevent workplace resentment.
How healthy is your workplace?
Assess your workplace health culture: does your organization understand its role in employee wellbeing? Learn what healthy working environments really mean and how they drive productivity and job satisfaction.
Guide promises to handhold bosses through the Companies Act
A new guidance document helps company directors comply with the updated Companies Act 2006, which requires large UK businesses to disclose their environmental and social impact in annual reports. The guide addresses directors’ new duties to consider their company’s effect on people and the environment.
Acas aid averts 16,000 employment tribunals
Acas prevented 16,000 employment tribunal cases in 2006 through its helpline and advisory services, saving businesses an estimated £120 million. Independent research shows that nearly a third of employees considering claims decided against pursuing them after receiving Acas information and guidance.
Public sector chief scoops £2.7m pension payout
Sir Richard Mottram, a top UK public sector official overseeing intelligence and national security, will receive a £2.7m pension package, including a £335,000 tax-free lump sum and annual payments exceeding £110,000. The generous payout has sparked criticism over rising public sector pension costs, which burden taxpayers billions annually.
Ask the expert: Redundancy and re-employment
Companies can re-employ workers previously made redundant, but risk creating continuous service if the new role is offered before the old contract ends. Legal experts advise ensuring a clear break between employments and note there’s no obligation to re-offer positions to those who declined earlier alternatives.
