Feature: Getting online with the Home Computing Initiative
The UK government’s Home Computing Initiative offers employers an affordable way to improve workforce IT skills and employee retention by providing home computers for as little as £4.40 per week. Despite growing interest, only 2% of UK companies have adopted the scheme, largely due to complexity concerns among smaller organizations.
Retailers warn of jobs slash if NMW goes up
Retailers warn that further National Minimum Wage increases could force job cuts of up to 20,000 positions, citing £2.7 billion in additional costs. A British Retail Consortium survey shows 44% of retailers would need to reduce staff if the rate rises to £5.20.
UK financial services ‘battered’ by redtape
The CBI warns that UK financial services face serious threats from regulatory overload, with companies battered by over 20 EU measures imposed between 2004-2006. The business group calls for a moratorium on new regulations to protect the industry’s global competitiveness and prevent management distraction from business development.
Civil servants vote to strike on Guy Fawkes night
UK civil servants have voted to strike on November 5th over government plans to eliminate over 100,000 jobs. The one-day national stoppage, the first in over a decade, will disrupt driving licenses, benefits, tax services, and customs operations.
TUC makes fresh call for an autumn bank holiday
The Trades Union Congress is calling on the government to create three new bank holidays to match European standards. The UK currently has eight bank holidays compared to Europe’s average of 11, with nearly 20,000 TUC members voting in favor of adding an autumn Monday off.
Editor’s Comment: Campaigners fired up for UK smoking ban
UK anti-smoking campaigners are pushing for comprehensive smokefree legislation similar to Ireland’s successful model, citing health risks from secondhand smoke in workplaces. With 114,000 UK smokers dying annually and evidence showing economic stability in countries with smoking bans, supporters argue total workplace bans are necessary to protect employee health.
Increasing the retirement age raises concerns
Proposals to raise the retirement age face employer concerns over increased legal risks, including potential discrimination claims. A survey found 85% of HR professionals oppose raising retirement age above 65, citing costly red tape and liability issues.
Workers go the extra mile in hope of promotion
Career progression is the primary motivator for workers going the extra mile at their jobs, according to a Manpower survey. While 90% of employees regularly exceed job expectations, only 10% cite financial rewards as their driving force, with over half prioritizing promotion prospects instead.
Money laundering scam hits small business
Small businesses are being targeted by scammers sending official-looking letters demanding payment for money laundering compliance packs. The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants warns these letters are fraudulent, as only regulated sector businesses like accountants and lawyers must comply with money laundering rules.
Merrill analysts suspended over Sainsbury’s report
Merrill Lynch has suspended two retail analysts over research into Sainsbury’s that triggered a Financial Services Authority investigation into selective disclosure. The suspension of analysts Andrew Fowler and John Kershaw was described as standard procedure to maintain professionalism standards.
Training key to management motivation
A Chartered Management Institute survey found that one-third of managers received no training in the past year, despite available budgets. The study reveals that managers seek greater learning opportunities, better communication, empowerment, and recognition to maintain motivation and drive organizational growth.
HR & Payroll free qualifications up for grabs!
Win a free 14-week HR or Payroll qualification from HRZone and HRD & Payroll Solutions. Entry forms are available at the Softworld event in Birmingham and the CIPD conference in Harrogate. The role-play based e-learning program offers three levels and suits HR professionals and those new to the field.
Feature: Handling staff email and internet misuse
Employers can minimize tribunal claims related to email and internet misuse by establishing clear written policies that specify acceptable use levels, restrictions on inappropriate material, and disciplinary consequences. Regular policy enforcement and staff training on equality issues are essential to create a safe workplace and prevent liability.
Software buyers must consider e-filing requirements
Software buyers must ensure their systems meet Inland Revenue e-filing requirements, which are being rolled out by employee size between 2004 and 2010. Employers should verify that purchased software is accredited and capable of delivering compliant online tax returns.
Teens – an employer’s dream workforce?
A Learning and Skills Council survey reveals that 93% of teens prioritize happiness over money and are willing to train for years to achieve their goals. Young people expect employers to support their career development through qualifications and training.
Feature: Effective succession planning
Effective succession planning ensures companies identify and develop future leaders before key departures occur. By maintaining accurate talent records, spotting high-potential employees early, and implementing strategic development programs, organizations can reduce costly recruitment mistakes and retain institutional knowledge.
Feature: E-Learning Styles
Claudine McClean examines how Kolb’s learning styles influence e-learning effectiveness. E-learning addresses limitations of traditional workshops by accommodating different learner preferences—from Activists who need interactive experiences to Reflectors who require time for contemplation—offering a flexible alternative to one-size-fits-all training approaches.
HR Tip: Racial balance
There is no legal requirement to match employee racial demographics to your local community, but recruitment must be unbiased and non-discriminatory. Ensure fair processes, eliminate bias, and actively recruit from all communities to access a broader talent pool.
Feature: Bridging the training gap – where e-learning went wrong
E-learning technology can significantly improve sales team performance by providing individual tracking, measurement, and personalized training—yet many sales directors remain reluctant to adopt it despite recognizing that inadequate staff training threatens market share.
Softworld HR & Payroll highlights
Softworld HR & Payroll takes place October 20-21, 2004 at Birmingham’s NEC, featuring 40 HR solutions suppliers and educational sessions. A key highlight includes an Inland Revenue Q&A on the Government’s new online filing requirements for employers.
