An employment contract is the foundation of the relationship between an employer and employee. It sets out the main terms that both sides have agreed. However, some terms are implied, such as the duty of trust and confidence, and in certain situations, terms found in other documents can also become part of the contract.  This… [Read More]

It’s a wonderful thing that workplaces are often multicultural environments, and a reality that in many workplaces in the UK workers will speak different native languages. Employers have a fine line to tread if they try to manage this – if you allow everyone to speak their own languages, then communication may suffer and some… [Read More]

The Oxford Learners Dictionary defines ‘banter’ as ‘friendly remarks and jokes’. On the face of it, you would think that workplaces would welcome ‘banter’ with open arms – it puts people at ease, lightens the mood and helps the working day go that bit quicker. However, we’re all aware that ‘banter’ isn’t always friendly’. Unfortunately,… [Read More]

Disciplinary and grievance hearings are high-pressure moments for employees and managers alike. Parliament has recognised this by creating a statutory right to be accompanied – but that right is specific, limited, and often misunderstood by employers. Employees: When do you have a right to a companion? All workers have a standalone right to request a… [Read More]

Dismissal can seem like the obvious solution when employee performance or conduct becomes a problem, but beware, it can be a high-risk option for employers. Premature termination can trigger unfair dismissal exposure and damage reputation. Plus, every person you lose takes with them valuable institutional knowledge. Action short of dismissal is sometimes the smarter route,… [Read More]