InsightsPlain English HR, for real businesses
Practical guidance on employment law and managing people, written for owners and managers of small and growing businesses.
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Right to work checks now cover subcontractors: what small businesses need to know
Since 1 October 2026 right to work checks reach workers, subcontractors and gig workers, with penalties of up to £60,000 per worker. What it means if you use subcontractors or suppliers.
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How to calculate holiday pay for leavers: a simple guide for employers
Someone is leaving and you need to work out their final holiday pay. Untaken holiday, overtaken holiday and the daily rate in three simple steps.
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Does holiday pay include overtime and commission?
Holiday pay isn't always just basic pay. When overtime and commission count and how the 52 week average works.
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Rolled up holiday pay and the 12.07% rule explained
What 12.07% means for irregular hours and part year workers and how to pay holiday as you go.
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Managing annual leave requests: a practical guide for small employers
Easter, summer and Christmas: how to plan holiday, handle requests fairly and make sure your team actually rests. Includes a free handover template.
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Six months to bring a tribunal claim: what small employers should do now
Since 1 October 2026 most claims can be brought up to six months after the event. Three things to put right in your records this month.
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Unfair dismissal after six months: how to make probation work from 2027
From 1 January 2027 employees can claim unfair dismissal after six months. Five steps to take before January.
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The new duty to prevent sexual harassment: a practical guide for small employers
From 30 October 2026 employers must take all reasonable steps, including protecting staff from customers and clients.
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Statutory sick pay from day one: what small businesses need to know
No waiting days and no lower earnings limit. What to check in your contracts, payroll and absence policy.
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