Pensions victory for part-time workers
The House of Lords ruled that part-time workers, predominantly women, can now claim backdated pension rights from 1976 after being previously barred from company pension schemes. However, a strict six-month time limit for filing claims means many women who waited longer will receive nothing.
Wanting to work abroad? See EXPAT 2001
Expat 2001 is Europe’s largest international expat fair, offering comprehensive information on living, working, and settling abroad. With over 80 participating organizations and 60+ services, the fair serves expatriates, emigrants, students, and multinational employees planning international relocations.
Safety policy
Small companies can access free health and safety policy templates from government resources and employer guidance. The HSE website offers practical advice and downloadable templates that small businesses can customize for their specific needs and workforce size.
compassionate leave
Compassionate leave isn’t legally required in the UK, but employers can choose to offer it as a goodwill gesture. Typical situations include caring for sick children or elderly parents. Small companies often provide 1-3 days annually, though policies vary based on individual circumstances and company resources.
HR Briefing #23 – Employment law updates, Getting to grips with IT, Interview: Sarah Perman
HR Briefing #23 covers employment law updates, IT skills for managers, and an interview with Sarah Perman of the Partnership Institute. The issue includes resources on HR topics, community Q&A features, and a free Investors in People diagnostic questionnaire.
Interview: Sarah Perman, Director of the Partnership Institute
The TUC has launched the Partnership Institute, a consultancy helping organizations develop more inclusive, collaborative workplace relationships. Director Sarah Perman discusses why now is the right time for partnership approaches and how the institute brings employers and unions together to solve problems constructively.
Train the Trainer
Learn how to design an effective Train the Trainer course covering both theory and practical applications. This guide explores essential course content including coaching techniques and instructional methods for developing internal training capabilities.
TUC asks Competition Commission to kick the Abbey habit.
The TUC urges the Competition Commission to review the proposed Lloyds-TSB takeover of Abbey National, citing threats to 9,000 jobs and reduced consumer choice in banking. The union warns the deal could trigger further consolidation among major banks.
New service to keep you up to date with Employment Law
LawZONE launched the Employment Law Newswire in association with employment law barrister Daniel Barnett to help HR professionals stay informed of legislative changes. HR Zone subscribers could opt in through their account settings to receive this monthly newsletter. Note: This service is no longer active; employment law content is now available through the Employment Law section.
Employment Law Newswire – Issue 1
The first monthly employment law bulletin featuring specialist barrister Daniel Barnett covers key developments in transfer of undertakings law, tribunal compensation awards, and recent employment cases including sexual harassment claims and workplace bullying allegations.
Outplacement services
Outplacement services help organizations transition employees at all levels, from administrative staff to senior managers, into new employment opportunities. These providers typically offer job search support, resume assistance, and career coaching tailored to each employee’s role and experience level.
Draft Regulations for Employment Agencies and Employment Business
The Government released final draft regulations for employment agencies and employment businesses on February 1, with an updated Regulatory Impact Assessment and explanatory commentary detailing changes from the May 1999 consultation version.
Which HR System?
Compare HR and payroll systems at this online workshop on February 6th. Learn about online, web-based, and small business options to find the right system for your needs.
Softworld Human Resources & Payroll Preview
The 9th annual Softworld Human Resources & Payroll conference takes place at ExCel London on 7–8 February 2001, featuring leading HR software exhibitors, an E-Recruit Zone dedicated to online recruitment solutions, and an educational program with breakfast briefings and executive masterclasses on current industry trends and best practices.
Managers getting to grips with IT
Modern managers must develop new IT skills as technology becomes strategically central to business operations. Companies should provide training to help managers understand how IT supports business objectives like cost reduction and customer relations, rather than viewing technology as a threat.
Data Protection Commissioner changes name
From January 30, 2001, the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner was renamed the Office of the Information Commissioner. The office continues enforcing the Data Protection Act while taking on new Freedom of Information responsibilities.
Recruiting part time staff
Learn strategies for attracting and retaining part-time staff in competitive job markets. Discover how improved pay, training, and working conditions can help recruit reliable workers for domestic and commercial cleaning roles.
Anyone with not-so-common E-mail clients?
Looking for HR Zone members using non-Outlook email clients like Netscape Communicator, Pegasus, or Eudora to help test newsletter link effectiveness. If you use alternative email software, contact Jon Seaton to participate in improving the service.
The Corus axe finally falls
Corus announced over 6,000 job losses across its UK steel operations over the next two years, with Wales hardest hit. The cuts follow weak demand and a strong pound affecting the industry, drawing fierce criticism from unions and politicians.
HR Weekly Watch – January 2001
A roundup of key HR and employment news stories from January 2001, covering job creation, redundancies, and government employment initiatives across the UK economy, including aerospace expansion, e-commerce opportunities, and concerns over plant closures.
