IT demand leaves public sector short
The UK’s financial sector has overtaken the public sector as the largest employer of IT contractors, potentially leaving public services facing greater skills shortages. Research shows financial services now employ 21.2% of IT contractors compared to 20.5% in the public sector, driven by investment banking growth and legacy system upgrades in the City.
‘Null’ points for Switzerland in Euro managers pay chart
Swiss managers face the lowest salary increases at 2% this year, while Greek managers benefit from 5% raises, according to Watson Wyatt’s global pay research. The variance reflects differing economic conditions and inflation rates across countries.
CBI slams government ‘pension for all’
The CBI has rejected the government’s proposed citizens’ pension scheme, arguing the UK cannot afford a universal flat-rate pension for all. Instead, the employers’ organisation recommends gradually increasing the basic state pension only to the level where pension credits apply, while encouraging employers to contribute to occupational pension schemes for those who can afford them.
Editor’s Comment: The Darwinism of Trade Unions
Trade unions are experiencing a resurgence after decades of decline following Thatcher-era restrictions that crippled their power. This article examines why unions have survived near-extinction and are now rebuilding influence in modern workplaces.
The Couch?! searches for Britain’s worst ‘boss’ idol
The Couch?! examines Britain’s worst fictional boss idols, from Mr Burns to Basil Fawlty. The article explores what makes a cringe-worthy manager and includes a top ten list of the most notorious bad bosses in television and literature, complete with their signature catchphrases.
Unions announce mother of all unions
Three major UK trade unions—the TGWU, Amicus, and the GMB—have announced merger talks to create a new union with 2.5 million members, potentially becoming the largest private sector trade union in Britain.
Business applauds incapacity benefit shift
The Government’s plan to overhaul incapacity benefit has won backing from business groups including the Federation of Small Businesses and Institute of Directors. The reform aims to encourage claimants to re-engage with work through financial incentives and support, while maintaining security for those genuinely unable to work.
Gangmasters exposed as serial exploiters of migrant labour
A TUC report reveals that migrant workers in the UK, including those legally employed, face exploitation meeting the legal definition of forced labour. Despite government action following the Morecambe Bay tragedy, workers on permits remain vulnerable due to employer control over housing, passports, and employment status.
£7.5 million sex discrimination claimant goes back to court
Stephanie Villalba, a former Merrill Lynch banker, is appealing her £7.5 million sex discrimination claim after losing in court last December. She won an unfair dismissal case for £55,000 but failed to prove sexual discrimination despite allegations of bullying and humiliation.
Softworld preview: Selecting the best payroll software for your business
Discover how to select the right payroll software for your business. Learn about BASDA’s RFI procurement process, which simplifies system selection while ensuring compliance with government regulations including PAYE e-filing requirements.
Scrap compulsory retirement, says IoD
The Institute of Directors calls for scrapping compulsory retirement ages, arguing it would help address the UK’s looming pensions crisis. An NOP survey of IoD members shows employers expect retirement ages to rise over the next two decades and believe workers want flexibility to continue working longer.
Accenture scoop 10-year BT HR deal
Accenture has secured a 10-year, £306 million contract with BT to provide human resources administration and business process outsourcing services across 38 countries. The deal covers recruitment, payroll, pension administration, benefits, and HR advisory services for BT’s 100,000 employees.
Staff keep ‘quiet’
UK workers report improved awareness of company goals and information flow, but fewer than half feel empowered to speak up about organizational changes. A survey reveals the gap between downward communication and employee voice remains a significant challenge for businesses.
UK tops Euro entrepreneur table
The UK has become Europe’s most entrepreneurial major economy, with nearly 10% of its population planning to start a business within three years, according to new Global Entrepreneurship Monitor research. The UK ranks ahead of Germany, France, and Italy in entrepreneurial activity, while the gender gap between male and female entrepreneurs continues to narrow.
Case Study: Sara Lee – Developing e-performance management systems
Sara Lee replaced its paper-based performance management system with custom e-performance software to improve HR efficiency across 150,000 global employees. The new automated system standardized three key processes—performance management, personal development, and management review—reducing administrative burden while ensuring consistent, accurate employee evaluations worldwide.
Review: New Market Mavericks
Geoff Cutmore’s “New Market Mavericks” offers an entertaining look at the investment industry through interviews with eight professionals, emphasizing the importance of risk management and caution in today’s uncertain market rather than pursuing quick gains.
Simon Cowell is ‘boss’ idol
Simon Cowell has been voted as Britain’s ideal boss in a new poll, despite being famous for his caustic criticism and sarcastic personality. The survey suggests Brits prefer aggressive management styles, though experts warn that stressful work environments can harm employee health more than major weight gain or aging.
IT managers ‘lack soft skills’
A recent poll reveals that 56% of UK IT managers feel under-equipped for their roles, with staff citing gaps in communication and delegation skills. Experts say improved leadership training and updated recruitment practices are essential to address this skills gap.
Pregnancy discrimination is rife
Nearly 30,000 working women in the UK lose their jobs annually due to pregnancy discrimination, according to the Equal Opportunities Commission. Almost half of pregnant workers report experiencing discrimination, including denial of promotion, bonuses, and training opportunities, despite laws prohibiting such practices.
‘Massive increase in Court Fees to prevent access to justice?’
Court fees in England have increased dramatically, with some fees more than doubling since 1998, raising concerns that higher costs may deter people from accessing the civil justice system. Legal experts warn that while means-tested exemptions exist, the substantial fee increases could particularly harm small businesses and those seeking to enforce their rights.
