This section contains the latest updates relating to Employment Law.
Employment Law News
Given the current economic situation, we recognise that many employers will be
faced with some tough business decisions. However, it’s vitally important to speak
to us first; there are a number of actions you can take now to protect your business,
and we’re here 24/7 to help. If you need advice on how best to manage your human
resources during the downturn, please call our Advice Service on 0870 523 8473 or
speak to your Consultant direct.
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From April the 1st next year, all workers will have the right to a minimum of 28
days’ annual leave entitlement. Public holidays can count towards the entitlement
but employers can no longer make payments in lieu of unused holidays. If you
have any queries about how this change may affect your business, please call the
Mentor Employment Law Advice Service or contact your Consultant direct.
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New Minimum Wage rates come into effect from the 1st of October. For the new rates,
please click on the link below. Failure to pay the correct Minimum Wage rate
could leave your business at risk of legal action. Preparing now will ensure that
you stay on the right side of the law.
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Labour’s National Policy Forum took place at the end of July. Though not responsible
for setting Government Policy, the Forum has an impact on employment policy to the
next election and beyond. Changes hinted at include further rights for those performing
public sector contracts and an extension of the ‘Adult’ National Minimum Wage to
21 year olds. Mentor is monitoring the outputs from the Forum and will advise
you on the specific actions you will need to take as soon as any of the discussion
areas look like progressing into law.
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The Government has announced that it will set up a one-number telephone helpline
for employees to complain to about issues including non-payment of the National
Minimum Wage; Working Time; Health and Safety and breaches of employment law by
“gangmasters”. It is not clear when this new service for employees will be introduced.
The proposals highlight the importance of having access to expert ongoing support.
As a Mentor client, you benefit from having our experienced consultants keep your
policies and procedures up-to-date, as well as expert advice available 24/7.
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The Government has just announced details of the proposed Equality Bill. This controversial
legislation, which may include allowing employers to positively discriminate in
favour of certain job applicants, will have a significant impact on employers, particularly
those performing contracts for the public sector. As the proposals are fleshed
out over the coming months, Mentor will keep you informed of any action you need
to take to protect your business.
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Employees could be allowed to ask their bosses for time off to train if government
proposals become law. The proposals, currently under consultation, are expected
to work in the same way as the existing "right to request flexible working arrangements".
Also under consultation is whether small businesses should be exempt from the new
rules, but given that most new employment laws apply equally to all businesses,
this is unlikely. Mentor will be responding to the consultation and will provide
you with further information when the proposals become clearer.
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Workers in the UK could retain their right to opt out of the maximum 48 hour working
week, if a package agreed by ministers in Europe in June becomes law. The proposals
have still to be approved by the European Parliament, and are unlikely to be in
force until Autumn 2009. The changes are likely to affect how employers operate
the "opt out" and Mentor will advise you on the specific actions you should take
as soon as it is clear how the law will work.
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Future government plans aim to give agency workers the same employment conditions
as permanent employees. Mentor Services will keep you updated on these proposals
and support you should this proposal be implemented.
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The government is planning to extend the right for parents of school-aged children
to request flexible working arrangements. With Mentor Services, your customers
can be assured that they are fully prepared for implementing these changes.
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When taking over a business or service contract you may be liable to incur a financial
penalty if you employ illegal workers. With Mentor Services, you can be assured
that you are following correct and practical procedures when taking over a business
or service contact.
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