We recommend including employment policies in a separate staff handbook rather than as part of a contract of employment, so that they can be updated in line with legislation without having to obtain your employees’ agreement. This approach also protects your business from a breach of contract claim if you fail to adhere to a policy.
There are some policies and matters which should be included and others which must be. A handbook would usually include the following:
- A summary of the organisation
- Whistle blowing policy
- Bribery act policy
- Maternity, paternity and adoption policies
- Shared Parental Leave policy
- Parental leave policy
- Time off for dependents
- Disciplinary and grievance policy
- Compassionate and bereavement leave
- Flexible and home working policies
- Equal opportunities policy
- Anti-harassment and bullying policy
- Sickness absence policy
- Retirement policy
- Data Protection policy
- Computer use policy
- Social Media policy
The exact content of your staff handbook will be guided by the industry in which you work and the type of staff you employ.
Many employee handbooks start with a few policies and these are added to over time. Our specialist employment law solicitors can review and update your staff handbooks to ensure they adhere to the many recent changes in employment law. Alternatively we can create staff handbooks from scratch, making them bespoke to your individual business and its needs.
Speak with our experienced employment solicitors today by calling 01752 203500. Alternatively email enquiries@GAsolicitors.com.
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