Employers must assess workplace risks to pregnant women
Employers must conduct workplace risk assessments for pregnant women and offer suitable alternative work, the Employment Appeal Tribunal ruled. The decision clarifies that failing to assess risks for expectant mothers constitutes sex discrimination under European law, even if similar assessments weren’t completed for other employees.
Work keeps us awake at night
A survey of British employees reveals that 22% lose sleep over work, with senior management and 25-44 year-olds most affected. Despite the widespread impact on well-being, only a third of employers offer workplace stress support systems.
Government aims to increase uptake of pensions
The government aims to boost pension uptake by simplifying products and reducing regulatory complexity, according to Alastair Darling. He proposes offering straightforward pension options available directly online or by phone, alongside more complex advisory services for those who need them.
Suited, not booted (out) – appearance in the workplace
Professional appearance in the workplace is a powerful business tool that directly impacts how colleagues and clients perceive you. In uncertain economic times, dressing appropriately and maintaining grooming standards conveys competence and professionalism, influencing whether you’re taken seriously and trusted in your role.
Pensions – what needs to be done?
The Work Foundation urges a major overhaul of UK pension policy, recommending higher state basic pensions linked to earnings, ending the contracting-out system, and reforming tax relief to better support lower earners’ retirement savings.
Rise in second jobs
Second jobs have increased 68% over the past 18 years, significantly outpacing overall employment growth of 18%, according to the Office of National Statistics. The trend varies by gender and income level, with high-earning men and low-earning women most likely to hold multiple jobs.
World Cup needs HR policy
A Deloitte survey reveals HR directors expect widespread absenteeism during the World Cup but lack formal policies to manage it. With nearly one in ten employees planning to call in sick to watch matches, experts warn businesses need clear communication strategies to prevent disruption.
Payroll tips: new starters
When processing new starters on payroll, verify work eligibility, obtain a P45 and National Insurance number, and ensure tax codes are correctly entered into your system. Common errors occur during this initial setup, making careful documentation and compliance checks essential to avoid problems with tax authorities.
Asthma at work
About 7,000 people develop work-related asthma annually in the UK, with common workplace triggers including latex, flour dust, and chemical fumes. New health and safety regulations aim to require employers to better control asthma-causing substances and improve identification of occupational cases.
Call for more bank holidays
The TUC is calling for at least three additional bank holidays annually, arguing that UK workers have the lowest number of public holidays and statutory leave in Europe. Britain currently has only eight bank holidays compared to 12-14 in other EU countries, with workers lacking legal protections for holiday compensation.
Should employees be allowed to decide on their retirement age?
A report examining UK graduate views shows 54% believe mandatory retirement ages should be abolished, allowing employees to choose when they retire. However, graduates hold conflicting views on age-based recruitment, revealing confusion about when age discrimination in employment is justified.
Inland Revenue updates
The Inland Revenue has updated its online PAYE service and issued guidance on upcoming National Insurance Contribution increases and their anticipated impact on taxpayers and employers.
The next big idea – review
Carol Kennedy traces the evolution of management theory from Taylor to the internet age, exploring emerging ideas about organizational biology, emotional intelligence, and digital-era leadership. This guide examines how management concepts have shaped business practice and what innovations may define the next generation of organizational thinking.
Cost of employment regulations – out of control?
The Institute of Directors estimates that employment regulations introduced over the past five years cost businesses £6 billion annually, with costs expected to rise further. Critics argue these regulatory burdens discourage business expansion and job creation.
No more job stability? and other myths about work debunked
Permanent jobs remain the norm in the UK, with 92 percent of workers holding permanent contracts in 2000, according to new research. Despite myths about job instability and portfolio working, employment tenure has actually increased over the past decade, though workers report growing dissatisfaction with long hours and workload pressures.
HR Zone Any Answers Digest #6 – Interview skills, competencies, dyslexia
HR Zone’s Any Answers Digest #6 covers recruitment strategies, succession planning, workplace diversity, interview skills, competencies, and support for dyslexia in the workplace. This community digest features expert Q&A discussions on internal versus external recruitment policies and best practices.
Moves to cut down work-related deaths
The TUC reports that someone in the UK dies every hour from a work-related disease, with asbestos-related illnesses and occupational cancers being the leading causes. Marking International Workers’ Memorial Day, the union is calling for improved access to occupational health services and stronger workplace safety measures to prevent deaths and injuries.
London workers have Europe’s worst commute, but are still envied
London office workers endure Europe’s longest commute at 51 minutes on the worst-rated public transport, yet remain among the happiest workers in Europe due to career opportunities, vibrant social life, and strong sense of safety.
Absence down, but costs still rising
Workplace absence in the UK fell to a 14-year low, with days lost dropping by 16 million in 2001. However, the annual cost to employers surged by over £1 billion to £11.8 billion, as companies spent more on overtime and temporary staff to cover absences.
Work and life: why aren’t we improving the balance?
UK employees aren’t taking up available work-life balance options despite employer support, due to organizational culture, management practices, and communication gaps. An Institute for Employment Studies report reveals that successful work-life balance requires cultural change, manager support, and clear communication rather than policies alone.
