FAQ's

Why do we need Terms and Conditions of Employment (Contracts)?

Why do we need a handbook? 

How do I calculate redundancy pay?

What holidays are employees entitled to?

Do I have to pay for holidays when an employee has only just started?

What are the Working Time Regulations?

How do I sack someone for theft?

Why do we need Terms and Conditions of Employment (Contracts)?

A Contract is a legally binding agreement between you and your Employee,

which is formed when the employee agrees to work for you for pay, the contract is made up of oral and written agreements, express terms those specifically agreed,

implied terms those to obvious to mention (e.g. that the employee will not steal from the employer); or those terms which make the contract work, (employee employed as a driver must have a driving licence.

Employees should be issued with a written statement of Terms and conditions within two months of starting work.

Confusion can lead to friction and misunderstanding so put it in writing. Employees need to know what is expected of them, and what you offer in return.

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Why do we need a handbook?

It is far easier to keep contracts simple and use a handbook to explain the rest.

During the course of 2004 it will be a statutory requirement for all companies to have a Grievance and Disciplinary procedure, this will go into a Handbook together with the companies other people policies, and company rules.

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How do I calculate redundancy pay?

Redundancy is a very complex area if you would give us a few details we can do the calculation for you.

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What holidays are employees entitled to?

Four weeks paid holiday (20) days, which may include Bank Holidays (8) days.

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Do I have to pay for holidays when an employee has only just started?

No you may request that they accrue holiday before taking leave or take leave unpaid until it is accrued.

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You are not allowed to force employees to work more than 48hrs per week

Unless they are willing to do so, it is not sufficient to agree this verbally it must be in writing. See our Publications for a download of an OPT OUT AGREEMENT.

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How do I sack someone for theft?

Follow a disciplinary procedure, failure to do so could result in a claim for unfair dismissal, depending on the employee’s age and service compensation can be up to £53,500currently, yes even if they have stolen from you.

Get advice and or down load the Disciplinary procedure. 

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This information is intended to be a brief introduction of the subject. Legal information is provided for guidance only and should not be regarded as an authoritative statement of the law. (e.g. When calculating redundancy pay we should also remember the Redundancy procedure that needs to be followed).

DOCUMENTS MAY BE DOWNLOADED FROM THIS SITE FOR YOUR USE. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR ASSISTANCE PLEASE CONTACT US